tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39862308435433023802017-09-24T22:05:16.047-07:00Vegan Food and Travel in JapanJessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-2703055205667823352015-02-21T19:46:00.002-08:002016-07-04T20:09:47.310-07:00Vegan Restaurants in Kyoto<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="top"></a> <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LxVF6b0WUdI/VOSgRF9OGOI/AAAAAAAAD5g/UFV4nXaR_ss/s1600/Kiyomizu%2BDera%2BTemple%2BEntrance%2BSnow.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LxVF6b0WUdI/VOSgRF9OGOI/AAAAAAAAD5g/UFV4nXaR_ss/s1600/Kiyomizu%2BDera%2BTemple%2BEntrance%2BSnow.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kiyomizu Dera Temple Entrance</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Kyoto is, in my opinion, the vegan capital of Asia: it has over a dozen vegan restaurants, and unlike Tokyo most are within walking distance of the common visitor attractions, and their standards and variety on average exceed Taipei. With a little planning, or even without it, it would be possible to eat at different restaurants for lunch and dinner for several days. And while <i>shojin ryori</i> (Buddhist temple cuisine) is a must-eat at least once in Japan - and Kyoto the place to do it - many are surprisingly inexpensive, with a simple set meal often costing as little as a thousand yen, much less than a comparable meal would be in most of the world's historic or major cities. If I had to choose one city to be confined to for the rest of my life, it would be Kyoto. It should feature on any Japan travel itinerary, or if coming from Asia, the Kansai region makes a worthwhile travel destination in itself.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>At a Glance (links stay in page)</b></span></span><br /><table border="1"><tbody><tr><td>Must-visit </td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#vegans">Vegans Cafe and Restaurant</a>, <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#shojin">Shojin Ryori</a> (temple cuisine) at least once </td></tr><tr><td>Also Highly Recommended </td><td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#tosca">Tosca</a>, <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#morpho">Morpho Cafe</a> </td></tr><tr><td>Best-value Simple, Healthy Meals&nbsp; </td><td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#sujata">Sujata</a>, <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#veggie">Veggie Cafe </a></td></tr><tr> <td>International </td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#sujata">Sujata</a> (Indian), <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#veggie">Veggie Cafe</a> (Israeli, Mexican, others) </td> </tr><tr> <td>Work/Study/Hangout Space </td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#choice">Cafe Choice</a> </td> </tr><tr> <td>Something different </td><td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#matsuontoko">Cafe Matsuontoko</a> (vegan pub), <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#cacao">Cacao Magic</a> (raw vegan chocolate factory and cafe) </td> </tr></tbody> </table><span style="color: #274e13;"><b></b></span><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #660000;">Orientation</span></b></span><br /><br /><iframe height="480" src="https://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zykHwWQV1xf8.kWqBUFGgvm8o" width="640"></iframe> <br /><br />Most sites of interest, and hotels, are north of Kyoto Station, except for Vegans Cafe &amp; Restaurant and Inari Fushima Shrine to the south. Higashiyama has the greatest density of key sites, including most famous temples and the Walk of Philosophy to to Kinkakuji (Silver Pavilion), which has three veg'n restaurants nearby. Gion is the ancient heart of Kyoto, and a must-visit, preferably during the evening; nearby are Cafe Matsuontoko, Choice Cafe Restaurant and Tamisa Cafe / Yoga studio. Morpho Cafe lies slightly to the North East, making it a good stop on the way to / from Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) while the Veggie Cafe lies to the West, making it a good stop for Arashiyama, were most of the temples and upmarket restaurants serving shojin ryori are located.<br /><br /><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>Walking</b></span><br />Kyoto is a great city for walking. While the big-ticket temples in Higashiyama and Kinkakuji should be on every visitor's list, I find that the less-famous temples are often much more memorable, both large temples with friendly resident monks (as opposed to ticket salespeople found at the gates of the famous temples) or tiny roadside temples or shrines. In particular I always enjoy walking to or from Kinkakuji, perhaps stopping at Morpho Cafe (or the Veggie Cafe) along the way but otherwise just following any path which seems interesting at the time.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #660000;"><b>Must-Visit Restaurants</b></span></span><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="shojin"></a><span style="color: #274e13; font-size: normal;"><b></b></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mudDtjfu1-g/VOb1HCOXYtI/AAAAAAAAD8w/g4ICqJ74bOQ/s1600/Bamboo%2BGrove%2BArashiyama.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mudDtjfu1-g/VOb1HCOXYtI/AAAAAAAAD8w/g4ICqJ74bOQ/s1600/Bamboo%2BGrove%2BArashiyama.JPG" width="297" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bamboo Grove, Arashiyama</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="color: #274e13;"><b><span style="color: #274e13; font-size: normal;"><b>SHOJIN RYORI in Arashiyama (or elsewhere)</b></span></b></span>While expensive, if possible I recommend trying <i>shojin ryori</i> (Buddhist temple cuisine) at least once in Japan, preferably in Kyoto. This cuisine has been developed over centuries (after Buddhism was imported from China) and is vegan without onion or garlic, but it never hurts to check! I enjoyed it at <a href="http://www.tenryuji.com/" target="_blank">Tenryuji Shigetsu</a> (<a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/tenryuji-shigetsu-kyoto-11170" target="_blank">Happycow</a>), which offers an excellent lunch deal at a comparatively low price of 3500 Yen (including entrance to the Tenryuji Temple) but it's also available at plenty of other places, with prices going up to and beyond 10,000 Yen, or more for dinner.<br /><br /><b>Arashiyama</b> <br />Most shojin ryori restaurants are located in Arashiyama in Western Kyoto. Arashiyama is a beautiful suburb which is much less crowded that Higashiyama. It doesn't have the same density of temples or historic quarters as Higashiyama, but is at least as beautiful. Most restaurants listed on <a href="http://www.happycow.net/asia/japan/kyoto/" target="_blank">Happycow's Kyoto page</a> as expensive serve shojin ryori. Many require reservations in advance. <br /><br />If you spend the afternoon in Arashiyama but only wish to eat shojin ryori once consider a meal at the Veggie Cafe on your way there or back, and note that shojin ryori is significantly cheaper for lunch. <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XIyWVv1tsSc/VObzqOI3TqI/AAAAAAAAD8k/w0gPVDCVkcw/s1600/Shojin%2BRyori%2BArashiyama.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XIyWVv1tsSc/VObzqOI3TqI/AAAAAAAAD8k/w0gPVDCVkcw/s1600/Shojin%2BRyori%2BArashiyama.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shojin Ryori (from Tenryuji Shigetsu, 3000 Yen + 500 Yen temple admission)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b>Fake Shojin?</b> <br />Unfortunately the high price of shojin ryori makes it prone to abuse, and there are many 'fake' shojin ryori restaurants (mostly outside of Kyoto) which serve similar food but not with nearly the same quality ingredients or careful preparation; while a foreign tourist may not notice a significant difference it would be a waste of this quintessential Japanese vegan experience (and a lot of money) to try an imitation. It's best to eat at restaurants in or directly attached to temples, also always read reviews first, and NEVER eat "shojin ryori" from a restaurant which also serves non-vegetarian food: it's fake shojin ryori and may well contain fish derivatives.<br /><br /><b>Alternative: Koyasan</b> <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AJiGJNhw3sM/VObNc9reUjI/AAAAAAAAD6Y/PknY5oMDR50/s1600/Koyasan%2BDinner%2BBreakfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AJiGJNhw3sM/VObNc9reUjI/AAAAAAAAD6Y/PknY5oMDR50/s1600/Koyasan%2BDinner%2BBreakfast.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Staying at a temple at Koyasan is a great way to experience a temple and try shojin ryori. At 10,000 Yen it's much more economic than dining in Kyoto (Eko In).</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Temples at <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2014/04/koyasan.html" target="_blank">Koyasan</a> (Mt Koya) offer excellent deals combining shojin ryori for breakfast and dinner with accommodation (starting at around 10 000 Yen), a good overnight trip from Kyoto or Osaka.<br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="vegans"> </a><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: normal;"><b>VEGANS CAFE &amp; RESTAURANT</b></span></span><br /><b>Kyoto's Top Vegan Restaurant</b><br />Shojin ryori is considered to be food in a class of its own, and is certainly priced so. But <a href="http://www.veganscafe.com/" target="_blank">Vegans Cafe and Restaurant</a> (<a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/vegans-cafe-and-restaurant-kyoto-29114" target="_blank">Happycow</a>), in my opinion, gives the temples (and private restaurants) a run for their Yen. Being vegan is about all they share, however, with shojin ryori being strictly traditional Buddhist temple food while Vegans serves up modern, delicious fusion cuisine with particular emphasis on classic western comfort foods, including the best pizza in Kyoto, making it especially popular with foreign tourists. It also appears to have become the default centre of the animal rights community in Kyoto.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-McXqdQTn-oA/VObpQbk5N3I/AAAAAAAAD6w/2HqAe7bzpA0/s1600/Vegans%2BCafe%2BRestaurant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-McXqdQTn-oA/VObpQbk5N3I/AAAAAAAAD6w/2HqAe7bzpA0/s1600/Vegans%2BCafe%2BRestaurant.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />I think that what gives Vegans Cafe and Restaurant its edge is that it's run a couple who are both passionate about veganism and experienced in the food industry; they ran a successful Yakinuki (fried meat) business for years before closing it to open Vegans Cafe and Restaurant after learning about animal cruelty online. This gives the restaurant a vibe which the majority of macrobiotic cafes in Japan (including some in Kyoto) just don't have when they're run by someone perhaps vaguely interested in the health aspects of macrobiotic food (which often comes after a period of ill-health) or who simply sees a business opportunity in it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eEKyoOKAyfc/VPlKNZpvNII/AAAAAAAAEDI/oxP1TnbsuKo/s1600/Vegans%2BCafe%2BRestaurant%2BSalad%2BRisotto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eEKyoOKAyfc/VPlKNZpvNII/AAAAAAAAEDI/oxP1TnbsuKo/s1600/Vegans%2BCafe%2BRestaurant%2BSalad%2BRisotto.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><b>Location</b><br />Where Vegans Cafe and Restaurant falls short is its venue: it's essentially on the 'wrong' (south) side of Kyoto Station, while most attractions and accommodation are to the north. And the venue itself is little more than a tastefully converted garage. But don't let that put you off: a visit to Vegans is a must while in Kyoto, and I recommend it for early in your stay to allow time for a possible return visit. It's only a five-minute ride on the JR Nara Line (to Inari Station) and a one-kilometre walk or short taxi ride, so can easily be managed after a long day exploring Kyoto. It's even easier of coming from Gion (a common end to a day exploring Higashiyama) requiring only a twenty-minute journey via the Keihan Main Line, including only a 600-metre walk.<br /><br /><br /><b>Nearby</b>&nbsp; <br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yf0EzzP8mpA/VObq6E3cz6I/AAAAAAAAD7U/DM4NpeTfMQo/s1600/Fushimi%2BInari%2BShrine%2BTorii%2BPath.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="438" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yf0EzzP8mpA/VObq6E3cz6I/AAAAAAAAD7U/DM4NpeTfMQo/s1600/Fushimi%2BInari%2BShrine%2BTorii%2BPath.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Vegans Cafe and Restaurant isn't completely off the tourist path. Be sure to visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, which is famous for its path up Mount Inari through thousands of orange torii (gates). This is one of few famous Shinto shrines in Kyoto (the large, famous temples are mostly Buddhist) and being the goddess or god of rice and sake, s/he's obviously important to Japan! (She manifests as both genders!) The beautiful trails around the mountain to the thousands of sub-shrines are difficult (and dangerous) at night, so a good option would be to have a late lunch at Vegans, explore Mt Inari during the afternoon and early evening, and then either return to Vegans for dinner or head back to northern Kyoto.<br /><br /><b>Essentials</b><br />京都市伏見区深草西浦町4-88<br /><span data-mce-style="line-height: 18.2000007629395px;" style="line-height: 18.2000007629395px;"></span><span data-mce-style="line-height: 18.2000007629395px;" style="line-height: 18.2000007629395px;"></span>075-643-3922 <br />Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday: <br /><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">11:30-15:00 (L.O. 14:30) <br />17:30-21:30(L.O21:00) Sunday &amp; Holidays: 11：30～17：30(L.O17:00) <br /><span data-mce-style="line-height: 18.2000007629395px;" style="line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Closed: Monday, Thursday </span><br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #660000;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Central Kyoto</span></b></span><br />This central area is close to Gion, and has several restaurants which don't work in perfectly with any itinerary but can easily be reached before or after a day's exploring.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bNqB_mZ61wA/VObw0Yo88AI/AAAAAAAAD8I/jLMKyY8m6kQ/s1600/Shirakawa%2BMinami-dori%2BSakura.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="467" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bNqB_mZ61wA/VObw0Yo88AI/AAAAAAAAD8I/jLMKyY8m6kQ/s1600/Shirakawa%2BMinami-dori%2BSakura.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shirakawa Minami-dori (Gion) is considered one of Asia's most beaitufl streets, especially during the <i>sakura</i> (cherry blossoms) </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: normal;">&nbsp; </span><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="veggie"></a><span style="color: #274e13; font-size: normal;"><b>VEGGIE CAFE</b></span><br />The owner of this charming little cafe is very passionate about healthy, organic food, particularly the use of agrochemicals in food, and he introduced me to the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natural_farming" target="_blank">Fukuoka Method of Natural Farming</a>, a system far better for the environment and its flora and fauna than organic farming. He returned to Japan from the USA to open the Veggie Cafe, which originally applied macrobiotic principles to Middle Eastern foods, particularly falafel, as he wanted to apply a familiar healthy food concept to something different to the regular curries and fake meat served at macrobiotic restaurants all over Japan. His menu now extends well beyond its falafel-and-hummus beginnings to include a range of soups, burgers and mexican dishes. During my visit he was experimenting with vegan baking using organic, whole grains.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ajQZ9TpD7Os/VObsFZx8fdI/AAAAAAAAD7k/PRn3EyLNfuo/s1600/Veggie%2BCafe%2BPita.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ajQZ9TpD7Os/VObsFZx8fdI/AAAAAAAAD7k/PRn3EyLNfuo/s1600/Veggie%2BCafe%2BPita.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><b>Organic Means Organic, but Not Expensive</b><br />For many "organic" restaurants in Japan (and Taiwan, and probably most countries) the namesake food standard is little more than an aspiration to use organic foods "where possible", which generally means "when not much more expensive" which generally means that very little of the food is actually organic. At the Veggie Cafe the owner lists the ingredients of his entire menu, stating which are organic, and virtually all are (eg "organic flour, yeast, organic sultanas...". I think the food at the Veggie Cafe is among the healthiest and certainly the best value in Kyoto, which is especially rare for a restaurant which uses mostly organic food.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PL8yzcUq9zg/VObrgjh8E1I/AAAAAAAAD7c/Xi4DgjNCQ4E/s1600/Veggie%2BCafe%2BBuckwheat%2BPancakes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PL8yzcUq9zg/VObrgjh8E1I/AAAAAAAAD7c/Xi4DgjNCQ4E/s1600/Veggie%2BCafe%2BBuckwheat%2BPancakes.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These delicious pancakes were made from organic, whole grains.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b>Essentials</b><br /><span itemprop="description" lang="en"> 錦猪熊町537京都市中京区錦</span><br /><span itemprop="description" lang="en"><span itemprop="telephone">0753663979</span></span><br /><span itemprop="description" lang="en"><span itemprop="telephone">Closes between lunch and dinner; call first to see if it's open (owner speaks English).</span></span><br /><span itemprop="description" lang="en">&nbsp;It's a little out of the way, but well worth the effort. If you won't be digging deep for shojin ryori in Arashiyama then the Veggie Cafe makes a good stop on the way there (or back, or both). </span><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="morpho"></a><span style="font-size: normal;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>MORPHO CAFE </b></span></span><br />Morpho Cafe is, in my opinion, one of Kyoto's top inexpensive vegan cafes / restaurants. The food is not quite as good as amazing as Vegans Cafe and Restaurant, or as inexpensive as Sujata or Veggie Cafe, but if you're looking for a delicious, fairly inexpensive meal, in central Kyoto, Morpho Cafe is a good option. It's not far from Gion and makes an alternative to Matsuontoko Cafe if one doesn't like the pub style. The staff are friendly and welcoming, and those I spoke with were clearly knowledgeable and passionate about healthy food.&nbsp; <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fH74XcoBAQY/VOSb5XC93sI/AAAAAAAAD5I/iNjazxkZGBs/s1600/Morpho%2BCafe%2BMeal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fH74XcoBAQY/VOSb5XC93sI/AAAAAAAAD5I/iNjazxkZGBs/s1600/Morpho%2BCafe%2BMeal.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This new curry noodle dish is an impressive and certainly unusual fusion of Thai and Japanese tastes. I was told to add the rice after finishing the noodles, which worked well.</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; <br /><b>Menu</b><br />Morpho Cafe serves a fairly typical mix of western, Japanese and a good range of fusion foods, including an authentic green curry and some great desserts. Main dishes start at around 1,000 Yen, and drinks and desserts are reasonably priced.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wxdj-GMmMzo/VOb2GfWOGtI/AAAAAAAAD84/JYHc6AqAj-8/s1600/Morpho%2BCafe%2BDessert%2B2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="337" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wxdj-GMmMzo/VOb2GfWOGtI/AAAAAAAAD84/JYHc6AqAj-8/s1600/Morpho%2BCafe%2BDessert%2B2.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><b>Essentials</b><br />Monday - Saturday:&nbsp; <br />11：30～15：00（L.O. 14:30） <br />17：00～L.O. 21：00<br />Closed Sunday <br />京都市上京区西堀川通中立売下る皀莢</div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">075-432-5017<b></b> <br /><br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="matsuontoko"> </a><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>CAFE MATSUONTOKO</b></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BTKAjMIl5qw/VORq2_UGf8I/AAAAAAAAD3s/zK1Cmt6Ids8/s1600/Cafe%2BMatsuontoko%2BExterior.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BTKAjMIl5qw/VORq2_UGf8I/AAAAAAAAD3s/zK1Cmt6Ids8/s1600/Cafe%2BMatsuontoko%2BExterior.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b>A Vegan Pub in Gion</b><br />Essentially a vegan pub, <a href="http://thinkagain.jp/cafe/matsuontoko/index.html" target="_blank">Cafe Matsuontoku</a> offers the chance to go out for a meal and drinks in Gion, the ancient heart of Kyoto. It's become a little more restaurant-like and less pub-like over the last couple of years, particularly with the addition of a mezzanine floor to allow for more tables, which is a good sign for the business's long-term viability. But it still feels like somewhere more focused on drinks than food, with the standard of food perfectly reasonable but far from many of Kyoto's better vegan restaurants.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PdHO-C-Nnnw/VORrUya4bDI/AAAAAAAAD30/eHX3ZAPjRG4/s1600/Cafe%2BMatsuontoku%2BLunch%2BSet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="286" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PdHO-C-Nnnw/VORrUya4bDI/AAAAAAAAD30/eHX3ZAPjRG4/s1600/Cafe%2BMatsuontoku%2BLunch%2BSet.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At 1000 (including a drink) Yen Cafe Matsuontoko's lunch set is good value. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><b>Pub Food?</b><br />Just as a non-vegan wouldn't go to a pub for the best meal out, nether should a vegan: it just serves classic pub food (especially burgers and fries) but vegan. I found their pizzas especially to be rather lacking, especially compared to Vegans Cafe and Restaurant. There are, however, two good reasons to eat there during the daytime. First, they offer inexpensive lunch sets starting at a thousand Yen (including tax - I appreciate the honesty of including it) which are very popular with local workers in the area, and a good quick start to a long afternoon exploring Kyoto. Secondly, they're always open, including during the afternoon between lunch and dinner, when virtually all other restaurants close their doors, and late into the evening.&nbsp; And being fairly central it's easy enough to get there from almost anywhere in Kyoto a visitor is likely to be. They were also a life-saver (along with Sujata) during the New Year period. Odds are you'll come here at least once during your stay for these reasons alone.<br /><br /><b>Essentials</b><br />11:00 - 22:00 (L.O.) everyday<br />京都市中京区新京極通四条上ル中之町538-6 <br />075-251-1876 <br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="choice"></a><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>CHOICE CAFE &amp; RESTAURANT</b></span> <br /><b>Classic Macrobiotic Food</b> <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5DC9LLLHg80/VORP8_fih9I/AAAAAAAAD3c/CAaxmjKrdNA/s1600/Vegans%2BCafe%2BChoice%2BLunch%2BSet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="334" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5DC9LLLHg80/VORP8_fih9I/AAAAAAAAD3c/CAaxmjKrdNA/s1600/Vegans%2BCafe%2BChoice%2BLunch%2BSet.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>&nbsp; <br /><br />One of the latest editions to the vegan scene (2015), <a href="http://choice-hs.net/" target="_blank">Choice Cafe and Restaurant</a> serves fairly typical health-focussed Japanese macrobiotic food. It has a spacious, impeccably-clean interior, and also sells a few alternative health and body care products. Set meals cost around a thousand Yen, with about half as much again for drinks or dessert. It's a very enjoyable spot for a meal when in the Gion area but nothing particularly stands out about the food or the restaurant to make it to your 'must-visit' list.<br /><br /><b>A Place to Chill Out or Work?</b> <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vCO3h6CrUgc/VORPTFk2IBI/AAAAAAAAD3U/dsA8bHptpT4/s1600/Vegans%2BCafe%2BChoice%2BBar%2BCoffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vCO3h6CrUgc/VORPTFk2IBI/AAAAAAAAD3U/dsA8bHptpT4/s1600/Vegans%2BCafe%2BChoice%2BBar%2BCoffee.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Order a coffee and get some work done, using the free wifi. There are also plenty of individual tables in the large restaurant.</td></tr></tbody></table>Need somewhere to write your <a href="http://www.happycow.net/asia/japan/kyoto/" target="_blank">Happycow reviews</a>? Being a large restaurant with a range of table arrangements, they're unlikely to be full, so while I'd recommend not staying longer than it takes to eat your meal if customers are waiting for tables, they advertise themselves as an "eat and study space" and offer free wifi, so if you need to hang out or get some work done, Cafe Choice makes a good alternative to Starbucks. Restaurants like this generally expect customers to order a drink if staying a long time, even after eating a meal.<br /><br /><b>Essentials</b><br />075-762-1233<br />京都府京都市東山区大橋町89-1 鈴木形成外科ビル&nbsp; <br />Mon - Thur 10:30 - 20:00 (L.O. 19:00)<br />Fri - Sat 10:30 - 22:00 (L.O.)<br />Closed Sunday<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="tamisa"></a><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>TAMISA CAFE (and Yoga studio)</b></span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VabqsrsShxo/VORFcozSBdI/AAAAAAAAD3E/zYSQAP69ovs/s1600/Tamisa%2BOrganic%2BCafe%2BKyoto%2BMeal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VabqsrsShxo/VORFcozSBdI/AAAAAAAAD3E/zYSQAP69ovs/s1600/Tamisa%2BOrganic%2BCafe%2BKyoto%2BMeal.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This quiche set was excellent value at about 1,000 Yen.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Tamisa Organic Cafe is a small cafe attached to a Yoga Studio and alternative health / culture shop. With only three small tables the cafe appears to be very much a side business mostly serving the steady stream of yoga clientelle, but walk-in customers are also welcome. Basic lunch sets start at around 1,000 Yen, and it had a very peaceful, relaxing vibe. It needn't make your 'must visit' list, but it's one of the better simple lunch sets in this price range, and definitely worth stopping in for a meal and drink if in the area. It doesn't specify how much of the food is organic. <br /><br /><b>Essentials</b> <br />11:30 - 17:00 (L.O. 14:30) daily, with variable holidays. Call to check if open first.<br />Teramachi Shopping Arcade<br />(This can be reached, from within the arcade, from Cafe Matsuontoku) <br />京都市中京区寺町三条上る天性寺前532北原ビル2Ｆ<br />0752120776 <br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #274e13;"><a color:="" e13="" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="proverbs&gt;&lt;/a&gt; &lt;span style="><b>CAFE PROVERBS (Closed) </b></a></span></div><br />This much-loved Kyoto institution <b>closed</b> in January 2014 (and is still closed as of January 2015) but owners are apparently looking for a more suitable space, so check <a href="http://www.proverbs1517.com/" target="_blank">their bilingual website</a> (or <a href="http://www.proverbs1517.com/" target="_blank">Happycow</a>) to see if and when it re-opens. Cafe Proverbs served delicious vegetarian food for decades, and while it's now matched in quality, price and variety by many fully-vegan restaurants, it should be worth a visit if you happen to be in the area if / when it re-opens. I personally much preferred its original name (Cafe Peace) and am not a fan of their (Old Testament) catch phrase: "Better is a dish of vegetables where love is, Than a fattened ox and hatred with it" because it suggests that there's something lacking in the dish of vegetables. <br /><b><span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span></b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="sunny"></a><b><span style="color: #274e13;">SUNNY PLACE</span></b><br />As far as I can remember, I've never actually managed to make it to <a href="http://sunnyplace.okoshi-yasu.net/" target="_blank">Sunny Place</a> while it was open (in several trips to Kyoto over the last few years) but it's all vegan, inexpensive and gets <a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/sunny-place-kyoto-17467" target="_blank">glowing reports on Happycow</a>. I recommend calling ahead to check it's open. Its <a href="http://sunnyplace.okoshi-yasu.net/menu.html" target="_blank">menu</a> includes burgers for under 1,000 Yen, and a range of drinks for around 500 Yen. <br /><br /><b>Essentials</b><br />京都市左京区鞠小路通今出川上ル <br />075 711-7617<br />12:00 - 14:00, 18:00 - 22:30<br />Closed Tuesday or possibly other times - call ahead first.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #660000;"><b>Higashiyama</b></span></span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vGCT0rP9vGE/VOR-K2bO4gI/AAAAAAAAD44/VyuNMRysryY/s1600/Ninen%2BZaka.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vGCT0rP9vGE/VOR-K2bO4gI/AAAAAAAAD44/VyuNMRysryY/s1600/Ninen%2BZaka.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ninen Zaka, Higashiyama (at dawn)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Higashiyama is the quintessential Kyoto experience, but you'll be enjoying it with thousands of domestic and international tourists, especially during weekends and public holidays. The usual route is to start in Southern Higashiyama and work northwards, eventually walking the Path of Philosophy to Ginkakuji.<br /><br />Unfortunately there are no vegetarian restaurants in Southern Higashiyama, so it's important to eat well in the morning before setting off. This day's exploring can be finished with a meal at Sujata or Tosca, which are both a short walk from Ginkakuji. <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-luUlTlArxHs/VOR5a-wGOoI/AAAAAAAAD4g/HT37v5T-d1c/s1600/Ginkakuji%2BKyoto%2BBackground.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="354" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-luUlTlArxHs/VOR5a-wGOoI/AAAAAAAAD4g/HT37v5T-d1c/s1600/Ginkakuji%2BKyoto%2BBackground.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ginkakuji (Silver Pavillion), Northern Higashiyama</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="cacao"><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>CACAO MAGIC</b></span><br /> The owner of </a><a href="http://www.cacaomagic.com/" target="_blank">Cacao Magic</a>,&nbsp; 'went raw' in the USA, and felt so much better for it that she decided to share the diet and lifestyle in her home country of Japan. She originally opened a raw food restaurant at the same location, but went on to find a niche in raw (vegan) chocolate as a more effective way to introduce the benefits of raw food through something everyone loves. Cacao Magic is something of a cottage industry, churning out raw, vegan chocolate for sale in the shop and <a href="http://www.cacaomagic.com/online-shop/" target="_blank">online</a>, however they may sell through larger retailers in future. <br /><b><br /></b><b></b><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zDgfoKFGAYw/VOSeF6WDcgI/AAAAAAAAD5U/O6iWCcWRf78/s1600/Cacao%2BMagic%2BChocolates.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zDgfoKFGAYw/VOSeF6WDcgI/AAAAAAAAD5U/O6iWCcWRf78/s1600/Cacao%2BMagic%2BChocolates.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raw vegan chocolates for sale at Cacao Magic </td></tr></tbody></table><b></b><b></b><b>Cafe?</b><br />During my visit the attached cafe was closed to allow the space to be used for the production and distribution of the chocolates, as I understand is often the case, however boxed chocolates are always available for purchase. Chocolates cost around 500 Yen and up (per chocolate) and come in sets, starting with around four chocolates, but it's important to remember that these are 100 per cent vegan and raw, and made freshly on the premises. If you're looking for the cafe it's worth dropping in as it's a few minutes walk from Kinkakuji.<br /><b><br /></b><b>Essentials</b><br />Chocolate shop: 11:00 - 17:00<br />Opening days vary - call ahead or drop in if visiting Ginkakuji.<br />京都市左京区浄土寺石橋町41-1<br />075-757-8914&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="tosca"></a><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>TOSCA</b></span><br /><br /><b>Kyoto's Top Dining Experience After Shojin Ryori</b> <br /><a href="http://tosca-kyoto.com/" target="_blank">Tosca</a> is run by two sisters whose parents have been vegan for decades, at a time when even vegetarianism would have been unheard of in Japan (outside of its very limited following among Buddhist monks from certain sects). It serves typical western / fusion food in a warm, spacious dining atmosphere. If you want to 'go out for a nice meal' but enjoy more familiar food in a more familiar setting than the shojin ryori experience (and spend much less) then Tosca is the place to come.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1ZlfENlHkbQ/VORyUnLn79I/AAAAAAAAD4E/85gbGrNdlfM/s1600/Tosca%2BMeal.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="346" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1ZlfENlHkbQ/VORyUnLn79I/AAAAAAAAD4E/85gbGrNdlfM/s1600/Tosca%2BMeal.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At just under 2500 Yen Tosca's dinner sets are great value.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b>Price</b> <br />While it's in the upper price bracket, their dinner sets, which start at around 2500 Yen, and are excellent value for such fine food in a classy restaurant. It's located a short walk from Sujata, slightly closer to Ginkakuji. Like Sujata, it's a nice culmination of a day walking from Southern to Northern Higashiyama, finishing at Kinkakuji.<br /><br /><b>Essentials</b><br />Lunch: Tues - Sat 11:30~15:00 (L.O. 14:30)<br />Dinner : Thurs - Sat 17:30~22:00 (L.O. 21:00)<br />Closed : Sunday - Monday<br />075 721 7779<br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="sujata"></a><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>SUJATA</b></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5EUMLgORLKc/VObyYp1_TrI/AAAAAAAAD8Y/whFSRonlFyY/s1600/Sujata%2BNameboard.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5EUMLgORLKc/VObyYp1_TrI/AAAAAAAAD8Y/whFSRonlFyY/s1600/Sujata%2BNameboard.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><b>Indian Food in Kyoto</b><br /><a href="http://www.sujata-cafe.com/" target="_blank">Sujata</a>(Happycow)&nbsp; is one of my favourite restaurants in Japan. This charming, humble eatery is run by a delightful Japanese lady who is a devout disciple of Sri Chimnoy (1931 - 2007), an Indian guru who taught his disciples to meditate and encouraged them to open vegetarian restaurants around the world. Food is vegan by default, with the occasional optional non-vegan addition (such as an egg to Japanese dishes). While she has occasional helpers, Sujata manages virtually the entire running of this busy restaurant herself, serving up a delicious Indian and Japanese favourites, including some very authentic Indian dishes, making it the best Indian food in Kyoto. Sujata also offers <a href="http://www.sujata-cafe.com/meditation_eng.html" target="_blank">free meditation classes </a>at 6:00PM on Saturdays.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-csZLq6Efhm0/VObteGwjggI/AAAAAAAAD7s/Cs3hmh3bm3M/s1600/Sujata%2BCurries.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="446" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-csZLq6Efhm0/VObteGwjggI/AAAAAAAAD7s/Cs3hmh3bm3M/s1600/Sujata%2BCurries.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />I don't often recommend individual dishes, but Sujata's home-style samosas, which she makes from scratch, remind me of my Indian friend's mother's cooking when I was a young child, and are a world apart from the oily, soggy equivalents served at most Indian restaurants around the world, especially Japan.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BvmjIIjKIlk/VObuj_BFOVI/AAAAAAAAD78/FaaOfKmlpX0/s1600/Sujata%2BSamosas.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BvmjIIjKIlk/VObuj_BFOVI/AAAAAAAAD78/FaaOfKmlpX0/s1600/Sujata%2BSamosas.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Try Sujata's Samosas!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b>Open During the New Year</b><br />I was especially grateful to Sujata for staying open during the New Year period, when it was otherwise almost impossible to find vegan food, even in Kyoto. She does, however, close for a period further into the year (in January in 2015) so if you find her closed I recommended walking to Tosca [link], and not the nearby Indian restaurants, as neither would honestly entertain the idea of providing trustworthy vegan food when I tried.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--LZgKK1BC8E/VObuFfyUdpI/AAAAAAAAD70/9pTdaj8JR8w/s1600/Sujata%2BJapanese%2BNY.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--LZgKK1BC8E/VObuFfyUdpI/AAAAAAAAD70/9pTdaj8JR8w/s1600/Sujata%2BJapanese%2BNY.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not just Indian: This traditional Japanese New Years Eve dish was delicious.</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; <br /><b>Top Inexpensive Eatery</b><br />If you'll be in Kyoto for a while and are looking for a simple, inexpensive place for healthy, satisfying vegan food then Sujata is one of the best places in Kyoto (The other is the Veggie Cafe. Sunny Place (<a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/sunny-place-kyoto-17467" target="_blank">Happycow</a>) is also very good if you can find it open.) Many of her regular customers are students from nearby Kyoto University.<br /><br /><br /><b>Essentials</b><br />Monday - Saturday: 11:30-18:00<br />Sunday: 11:30 - 16:00 <br />Hours are irregular, call ahead first if coming from afar, or else just try Tosca up the road.<br />075-721-0789<br /><span class="textlgot">京都市左京区田中門前町96-2</span><br /><a href="http://www.sujata-cafe.com/index_eng.html" target="_blank">Website</a><br /><br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #660000;"><b><span class="textlgot">Places I Don't Recommend</span></b></span></span><br /><br /><span class="textlgot"><b>Falafel Garden</b> used to be a great vegan option for something different in Kyoto, and is still on Happycow. I had reasonable meals here in the past, but it's now trumped by the all-vegan, organic <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#veggie">Veggie Cafe</a>, to which it can't compare by any measure. There are several <b>Indian restaurants</b> in Kyoto, probably cashing in on a continual stream of foreign visitors wanting a break from Japanese food. I tested the waters at several, but was unable to find an owner/waiter/chef I trusted to provide trustworthy vegan food. For Indian food in Kyoto head to <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#sujata">Sujata</a>, or wait until <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html" target="_blank">Tokyo</a> or your next destination.</span><br /><br /><span class="textlgot">&nbsp;<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lby1JvUqe1E/VObQMKzNQmI/AAAAAAAAD6k/1qwDoj-pL9w/s1600/Kinkakuji.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lby1JvUqe1E/VObQMKzNQmI/AAAAAAAAD6k/1qwDoj-pL9w/s1600/Kinkakuji.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) is perhaps Kyoto's most famous landmark, but has no notable vegan restaurants nearby. A good option is to go to Morpho Cafe and take bus 12, or alternatively it makes a great walk back to central Kyoto. </td></tr></tbody></table></span><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-kyoto.html#top">Top of Page</a></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-369442498734145372015-02-17T06:18:00.000-08:002017-01-05T05:55:02.092-08:00Vegan Restaurants In and Around Fukuoka <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="top"> </a><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CRNWGuSwTqc/VONOl2FS9tI/AAAAAAAAD20/Wo3Cc27Ahng/s1600/Maizuru%2BPark%2BFukuoka.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CRNWGuSwTqc/VONOl2FS9tI/AAAAAAAAD20/Wo3Cc27Ahng/s1600/Maizuru%2BPark%2BFukuoka.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maizuru Park is Fukuoka's Largest Backyard and home to its castle ruins.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Fukuoka is a very live-able city and an interesting one to visit. The vegan scene has improved drastically over the last couple of years, with good options both within the city and a short train ride. If you have more than a day in the city I recommend taking the short trip to at least one of Funadeya or Haze Rouge. <br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Orientation</h2><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe height="480" src="https://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zykHwWQV1xf8.kZcJQK2WioJM" width="100%"></iframe> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Fukuoka is a merger of the two former municipalities, Fukuoka and Hakata, with both names commonly used to describe the city. Most significantly, Hakata is the name given to the main station (for Shinkansens) and is the commercial hub, but Tenjin (five minutes away on the Airport Line, or a half hour walk) is the cultural and certain culinary heart of Fukuoka, especially for vegans. It would be better, if possible, to stay around that area, but the city is covered well enough by buses and the subway that transport isn't a problem at all. Note that the only "Fukuoka Station" is in fact in Toyama Prefecture.<br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Vegan Restaurants in Fukuoka </h2><h3>Evah Dining (Vegan Cafe and Bentos)</h3><table border="1" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody><tr> <td><b><a href="http://www.evahdining.com/" target="_blank">Company Website</a></b> <br /><br /><b>Evah Dining Hakata Station Kiosk </b><br />1-1 Hakataekichuogai Hakata-ku Fukuoka Fukuoka <br />福岡県福岡市博多区博多駅中央街1-1 JR博多シティ1F <br />092-483-2262<br />Lunchboxes often begin selling out mid-evening.&nbsp; <br /><br /><a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/evah-dining-macrobiotic-deli-fukuoka-64505" target="_blank">Happycow</a><br /><br /><br /><b>Evah Dining Cafe</b><br /><a href="http://riverain.co.jp/english/" target="_blank">Riverrain Mall (English website)</a><br /><br />福岡市博多区下川端町3-1 <br />10:30 - 22:00 (L.O. 21:30) <br />Lunch Menu: 11:00 - 15:00 <br />c092-713-6033 </td> </tr></tbody></table><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Cafe</h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--dq3g_1A6-M/V8vEaKaJDmI/AAAAAAAAFhs/pi5k1p0Mye8QotH6nnF8xJuV7Xe1WRLDACLcB/s1600/Evah%2BDining%2BCafe%2BRiverrain%2BCurry%2BAugust%2B2016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--dq3g_1A6-M/V8vEaKaJDmI/AAAAAAAAFhs/pi5k1p0Mye8QotH6nnF8xJuV7Xe1WRLDACLcB/s640/Evah%2BDining%2BCafe%2BRiverrain%2BCurry%2BAugust%2B2016.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />The vegan heart and soul of Fukuoka is the famous <a href="http://www.evahdining.com/" target="_blank">Evah Dining</a>. Unfortunately they recently closed their flagship restaurant, and they now run a simpler cafe inside the Riverrain shopping mall. It's a shadow of its former self as one of Japan's best and best-value vegan restaurants, but if you just want an easy, affordable vegan meal it's worth a visit.Portions, which mostly cost from 800 to 1000 Yen, are small, so I recommend ordering a couple per person. As usual in Japan, lunch sets are better value. <br />&nbsp;The mall is closest to Nakasukawabata Station, two stops from Hakata Station on the Kuko Line . Car parking is available. <br /><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Bentos (Lunchboxes) </h4><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tDLjV4Pook4/V8vLm4L48rI/AAAAAAAAFiM/yARiZf0U9wYttcB1ss0PE-nr1RV9d7PPwCLcB/s1600/Evah%2BDining%2BFukuoka%2BBento%2Bon%2BShinkansen%2BAugust%2B2016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tDLjV4Pook4/V8vLm4L48rI/AAAAAAAAFiM/yARiZf0U9wYttcB1ss0PE-nr1RV9d7PPwCLcB/s640/Evah%2BDining%2BFukuoka%2BBento%2Bon%2BShinkansen%2BAugust%2B2016.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bento from Evah Dining on the Shinkansen (800 Yen)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />But Evah are best known for their incredible <i>bentos</i>, or Japanese lunchboxes, which are available in two outlets in Hakata Station. They are especially good for taking to Maizuru Park or Ohori Park (the heart of Fukuoka, famous for its castle ruins). A small meal starts at around 500 Yen, and a take-out feast can be had for 1,000 Yen. While it's generally food which doesn't keep too well, consider getting one for the next day's breakfast if you'll be up early to explore the city. If you are passing through Fukuoka on the shinkansen (in which case you're probably not reading this) it's worth stopping by to stock up on the day's food. The largest kiosk is the easiest to find, and is in Ippin Dori "street" (inside the station, so not really a street), not far from the main&nbsp; Shinkansen ticket gate. If in doubt just ask at information where Evah Dining (エヴァダイニング) is.<br /><br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Coffee Hiruneko</h3><table border="1" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody><tr> <td>福岡市城南区友泉亭2-3 〒814-0122 <br />092-771-7899 <br />Wed - Mon: 12:00 - 23:00 (L.O. 22:00)<br /><a href="http://www.hiruneco.sblo.jp/" target="_blank">Website</a> / <a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/hiruneko-shokudou-fukuoka-56020" target="_blank">Happycow</a> (as Hiruneko Shokudo) / Facebook</td> </tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">&nbsp;<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DFIhGhh7AtA/V8vFvrtisWI/AAAAAAAAFh8/PCgib7c4oFwI6TZaON5jPDMlNN0L1srvwCLcB/s1600/Care%2BHiruneko%2BFukuoka%2BBurger%2Bset%2BAugust%2B2016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DFIhGhh7AtA/V8vFvrtisWI/AAAAAAAAFh8/PCgib7c4oFwI6TZaON5jPDMlNN0L1srvwCLcB/s400/Care%2BHiruneko%2BFukuoka%2BBurger%2Bset%2BAugust%2B2016.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br />The friendly vegan owners of this cat-themed cafe serve Fukuoka's best Western and international fusion food, including the best pizza in Fukuoka. It's open late and a great place to stop in for a coffee or satisfying meal. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><h3>Sky Walk (スカイウォーク) </h3><table border="1" style="width: 100%;"><tbody><tr><td><br />Mon - Fri: 9:30 - 19:00, Sat - Sun: 9:30 - 17:00 <br />3-1-28 Kego Chuo-ku Fukuoka Fukuoka <br />福岡県 福岡市中央区 警固 3-1-28 アーバン警固 1F <br />092-791-8312 <br /><a href="http://happycow/" target="_blank">Website</a> / <a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/haze-rouge-fukuoka-41875" target="_blank">Happycow</a> / Facebook</td> </tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-09hbOZ2EmZw/V8vDlfnj6ZI/AAAAAAAAFho/llULioeK8W4W6E87u2hY3xul9ygGb06IACLcB/s1600/Skywalk%2BCafe%2BFukuoka%2BSandwich%2BAugust%2B2016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-09hbOZ2EmZw/V8vDlfnj6ZI/AAAAAAAAFho/llULioeK8W4W6E87u2hY3xul9ygGb06IACLcB/s400/Skywalk%2BCafe%2BFukuoka%2BSandwich%2BAugust%2B2016.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br />This charming, inexpensive little organic shop serves delicious sandwiches and smoothies in a small cafe. It's a very limited menu, but a great lunch option nonetheless. <br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Haze Rouge</h3><table border="1" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody><tr> <td>Lunch: 11:30 - 2:30 (LO)Dinner: 18:00 - 20:00 (LO)<br />(reservations required for dinner)<br />0942 27 6750<br />〒839-0827 福岡県久留米市山本町豊田１８４９－１ <br />1849-1,Toyoda,Yamamoto-machi,Kurume-city,Fukuoka <br /><a href="http://happycow/" target="_blank">Website</a> / <a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/haze-rouge-fukuoka-41875" target="_blank">Happycow</a> / Facebook</td> </tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nAa82kW-Brs/VOM7dLLavbI/AAAAAAAAD1I/VotP7L0XVAM/s1600/Haze%2BRouge%2BBuilding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nAa82kW-Brs/VOM7dLLavbI/AAAAAAAAD1I/VotP7L0XVAM/s1600/Haze%2BRouge%2BBuilding.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />In nearby Kurume is the incredible Haze Rouge, which serves some of the finest vegan macrobiotic food in Japan to guests who dine in their own room in this 120 year-old Japanese house in the <i>inaka</i> ( Japanese countryside). This experience is similar to eating the famed <i>Shojin-Ryori </i>(Japanese temple cuisine, best eaten in Kyoto or at Koyasan), however it uses Western tables and chairs and utensils, and the food is also more Western / international fusion in its style. Dining here is a unique experience, and with delicious, multi-course lunch sets starting at 1650 for a four-course menu or 2,950 for a five-course menu. Walk-ins are welcome for lunch, but reservations are required for dinner, which start at around 5,000 Yen. <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lhG9w-Vy_FU/VOM7k8XwoJI/AAAAAAAAD1Q/P1uAaCBRYOI/s1600/Haze%2BRouge%2BFukuoka%2BMeal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="126" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lhG9w-Vy_FU/VOM7k8XwoJI/AAAAAAAAD1Q/P1uAaCBRYOI/s1600/Haze%2BRouge%2BFukuoka%2BMeal.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><br />To get there, take the Nishitetsu Tenjin Omita Line from Nishitetsu Fukuoka Station, and then transfer to Bus 25, and get off at Shimono (<span class="directions-mode-group closed" id="transit_group_0"><span class="transit-stop-name" title="下野（バス）">下野) stop after about twenty minutes</span></span>. The whole journey from Fukuoka, including the pleasant ten-minute walk, should take about an hour and cost about a thousand Yen. If you have a Japan Rail Pass, more money than sense or are coming from the south already, Kurume Station is also a stop on the Kyushu Shinkansen. It would of course be easier with your own wheels, but don't let the public transport put you off.<br /><br /><iframe height="480" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=zykHwWQV1xf8.kr3hNyOgZKqA" width="100%"></iframe> <br /><br /><br /><h4 style="text-align: left;">Near Haze Rouge</h4><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5AqvrmbxGMI/VOM8ohbaJGI/AAAAAAAAD1Y/4yasLjzJ4tY/s1600/Daihonzan%2BNaritasan%2BTemple%2BFukuoka.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5AqvrmbxGMI/VOM8ohbaJGI/AAAAAAAAD1Y/4yasLjzJ4tY/s1600/Daihonzan%2BNaritasan%2BTemple%2BFukuoka.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>&nbsp; <br />The amazing <a href="http://www.kurume-naritasan.or.jp/guidance01.html" target="_blank">Daihonzan Naritasan Kurume (Buddhist) Temple</a> (久留米成田山) with its 62-metre high Kannnon statue . If you're there early enough (it close at 5PM) it's possible to climb up and look out the eyes of the Buddha, and to witness Buddhist Hell beneath the Buddha (500 Yen). Note that there's also another Naritasan Temple in the other Narita City in Chiba, best known for Tokyo's Narita International Airport. To get there from the restaurant it's necessary to change buses again at the Nishitetsu Bus Station.<br /><b>See also:</b> <a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Kurume" target="_blank">Wikitravel Kurume</a><br /><br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Veggie Funadeya (船出屋)</h3><table border="1" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody><tr> <td>Tue - Sun 11:30 - 16:00 (Last Order 15:00)<br /><div itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress"><span itemprop="streetAddress">福岡県 古賀市日吉3丁目17-12&nbsp; </span></div><div itemprop="address" itemscope="" itemtype="http://schema.org/PostalAddress"><span itemprop="streetAddress">3 Chome-17-12 Hiyoshi, Koga</span>, <span itemprop="addressLocality">Fukuoka</span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null">, <span itemprop="addressCountry">Japan</span>,</a> <span itemprop="postalCode">811-3106</span></div>092-980-2631 (call first before visiting)<br /><a href="https://r.goope.jp/funadeya/top" target="_blank">Website</a> / <a href="https://www.facebook.com/%E8%88%B9%E5%87%BA%E5%B1%8B-veggie%E9%A3%9F%E5%A0%82-379385712086320" target="_blank">Facebook</a> / <a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/veggie-syokudo-funadeya-fukuoka-63622" target="_blank">Happycow</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XSwd3c5bhdE/V8ux91VIneI/AAAAAAAAFhY/v6IeRqUkNSMz4p7uZiBljlKTVU6Wnwn2gCLcB/s1600/Veggie%2BFunadeya%2Bmeal%2Bset.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XSwd3c5bhdE/V8ux91VIneI/AAAAAAAAFhY/v6IeRqUkNSMz4p7uZiBljlKTVU6Wnwn2gCLcB/s400/Veggie%2BFunadeya%2Bmeal%2Bset.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br />The owners of Funadeya are passionate about promoting vegan food and animal rights, passion that's obvious by the animal rights stickers on the door and especially the quality of the food and generous portions. This is the place to come for a hearty, inexpensive feast while staying in Fukuoka. Set meals start at around 1000 Yen. Bentos (take-out lunchboxes) start at around 600 Yen.<br /><br />Unfortunately for the casual visitor, Funadeya is near Shishibu Station, about half an hour north of Fukuoka on the JR Kagoshima Local Line (鹿児島本線). It's essential to call before travelling out there, as they sometimes close to run their catering service.It's not far from the station, but is a little tricky to reach, so it's best to have a smartphone with a data connection, or at least have the directions saved on your phone.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2015/02/vegan-restaurants-in-and-around-fukuoka.html#top"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Top of Page</b></span></a></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-77150258595594623512014-08-16T23:56:00.002-07:002015-02-17T06:30:32.122-08:00Mana Burgers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><b><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-size: large;">As of February 2015 Mana Burgers have sadly closed. I'll keep this page here until I find out whether or not there's any chance of them re-opening anywhere else.</span></span></b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4cBkce4Jkk4/U_BOYKaEPII/AAAAAAAACmA/vHPSVifHWYQ/s1600/DSCF0680.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4cBkce4Jkk4/U_BOYKaEPII/AAAAAAAACmA/vHPSVifHWYQ/s1600/DSCF0680.JPG" height="248" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br />I first went to&nbsp;<a href="http://manaburgers.co.jp/" target="_blank">Mana Burgers</a>&nbsp;in 2010, when I had a day in Fukuoka on a whirlwind tour of Japan on the Japan Rail Pass. I went to Mana burgers, did a load of laundry, slept, got up and whipped around the old castle ruins, all in less than a day, and then had to jump back on the Shinkansen to get back to Tokyo before my pass ran out.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a4oaFE5vbXs/U_BQGK-Eq1I/AAAAAAAACmY/FsTGdRU-RHg/s1600/Mama%2Bburgers%2Bfrom%2Bfacebook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a4oaFE5vbXs/U_BQGK-Eq1I/AAAAAAAACmY/FsTGdRU-RHg/s1600/Mama%2Bburgers%2Bfrom%2Bfacebook.jpg" height="218" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mana Burgers, Fukuoka, 2010 (now closed)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I was delighted to recently learn that they've re-opened in Yokohama. I also learned that Island Veggie is also inspired by the same owners.<br /><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TnPrtnhF9rg/U_BOm0WTNkI/AAAAAAAACmI/A1eotmVoF64/s1600/DSCF0678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TnPrtnhF9rg/U_BOm0WTNkI/AAAAAAAACmI/A1eotmVoF64/s1600/DSCF0678.JPG" height="176" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Natural junk" in a nutshell!</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>My burger was delicious, and it's always nice to find a fresh soy smoothie!</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DbzH130zMoM/U_BQhG7AsWI/AAAAAAAACmg/FqURC18dtQY/s1600/mana%2Bburgers%2Bmeal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DbzH130zMoM/U_BQhG7AsWI/AAAAAAAACmg/FqURC18dtQY/s1600/mana%2Bburgers%2Bmeal.jpg" height="348" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mana Burgers meal (Yokohama, 2014)</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>They also serve steamed buns from the Loving Hut.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n1-aAA7TrJs/U_BQ0XM_IHI/AAAAAAAACmo/r2GIKwjFBsw/s1600/DSCF0677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n1-aAA7TrJs/U_BQ0XM_IHI/AAAAAAAACmo/r2GIKwjFBsw/s1600/DSCF0677.JPG" height="171" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steamed Bun from the Loving Hut</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>While they're officially the only vegetarian restaurant in Yokohama (disappointing for a city the size of New Zealand) they're a long way from Yokohama Station or tourist areas, and it's faster to reach them from Tokyo (25 minutes from Shibuya Station on the Den-en Toshi Line) than from Yokohama. But when you're feeling like a healthy (??) junk-food meal they're well worth a visit from either city.<br /><br />The interior is large and pleasant, with indoor and outdoor seating.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9_fomwtN9Os/U_BR-MWme8I/AAAAAAAACm4/9T_WBPkK1_s/s1600/DSCF0679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9_fomwtN9Os/U_BR-MWme8I/AAAAAAAACm4/9T_WBPkK1_s/s1600/DSCF0679.JPG" height="258" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br />It's not easy to find Mana Burgers, and as of August 2014 they aren't on Google Maps (and only the owner can add them, and I can't find an email address to suggest it). But his location should be correct, and their own&nbsp;<a href="http://manaburgers.co.jp/location.html" target="_blank">map is here</a>.</div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.000500ccb0a95d8bff765&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;start=0&amp;geocode=FcwrHQIdO3lSCCGEMRi3vnQKYintTi-xE1wYYDGEMRi3vnQKYg%3BFVToHgId63tRCA&amp;ll=35.579115,139.557781&amp;spn=0.006108,0.008583&amp;z=16&amp;output=embed" width="400"></iframe><br /></div><small>View <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.000500ccb0a95d8bff765&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;start=0&amp;geocode=FcwrHQIdO3lSCCGEMRi3vnQKYintTi-xE1wYYDGEMRi3vnQKYg%3BFVToHgId63tRCA&amp;ll=35.579115,139.557781&amp;spn=0.006108,0.008583&amp;z=16&amp;source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Mana Burgers</a> in a larger map</small> <br /><br /></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-47418358402086874052014-08-04T01:39:00.000-07:002017-08-22T00:07:16.614-07:00Vespera's Falafel<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Unfortunately <b>Vespera's Falafel has permanently closed</b>. I will leave this page open for posterity, and in case the owner hopefully reopens (he has closed and re-opened in the past).&nbsp;</span><br /><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pbYuXYrcLDk/U92v3LDJXlI/AAAAAAAACb0/vWGRncWYJjg/s1600/DSCF0612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pbYuXYrcLDk/U92v3LDJXlI/AAAAAAAACb0/vWGRncWYJjg/s1600/DSCF0612.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An advertisement for vegan food is always a good sign!</td></tr></tbody></table>The original <a href="http://vegvespera.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Vespera's Falafel</a> closed down at its previous location after the owner was unfortunately hit by a car, but he's now recovered and re-opened his store in Koenji. I found it on <a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/vesperas-falafel-and-deli-tokyo-36290">Happycow</a>, and decided to make the half-hour trip from where I was staying in search of Tokyo's newest falafel eatery, and it was my best find in months (thanks Happycow!). Unfortunately it'll be a while before I make it back since I'm leaving Japan soon, but Vespera's Falafel should top any travellers list, and if you live in or around Tokyo, I recommend it as a great place to go for delicious, affordable meals and a pleasant and interesting place to hang out. I was amazed to find myself the only customer on a Saturday night, though I guess that's to be expected for a newly-opened restaurant in a quiet suburban location.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rBhsNrCgEjA/U92w0oHaghI/AAAAAAAACcE/2a6Hzf-OsWA/s1600/Vespera's+Falafel+Meal+Drink.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="329" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rBhsNrCgEjA/U92w0oHaghI/AAAAAAAACcE/2a6Hzf-OsWA/s1600/Vespera's+Falafel+Meal+Drink.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not just falafel: This Pad Thai was the best I've had outside Thailand.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />While Vespera's namesake falafel was fresh, crispy and delicious as falafel should be, it turns out that this restaurant isn't just about falafel. While the menu is predominantly Middle-Eastern, it offers an expanding range of other international cuisines. I enjoyed a falafel wrap, fried potatoes (chips) with a delicious chilli seasonings and the best Pad Thai I've had outside of Thailand. They serve a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including organic ginger beer. They have an English menu and the friendly and helpful waitress spoke fluent English.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IOr0w_ipv9M/U92v3ICGhUI/AAAAAAAACbs/a1s5i0fQRNU/s1600/DSCF0611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IOr0w_ipv9M/U92v3ICGhUI/AAAAAAAACbs/a1s5i0fQRNU/s1600/DSCF0611.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not the most healthy, I still occasionally enjoy fried potatoes (as they are known in <br />Japan) and these were the best I've had anywhere, owing to their fresh, spicy seasoning.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The vegetarian owner, Eiji, is passionate about serving healthy vegetarian food at affordable prices, and that he certainly is: At 650 Yen for a falafel wrap or 500 Yen for a Pad Thai - both prepared cooked perfection - prices are incredibly low for Tokyo, especially for such quality vegan food. Two dishes, fried potatoes and a drink came to 2000 Yen.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CnoEZNxHZ6w/U92v3E6fSwI/AAAAAAAACbw/Al385WkJuxY/s1600/DSCF0602.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CnoEZNxHZ6w/U92v3E6fSwI/AAAAAAAACbw/Al385WkJuxY/s1600/DSCF0602.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vespera's Falafel has a very pleasant dining interior.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Vespera's Falafel has a very pleasant, spacious dining area, which includes western-style tables and traditional Japanese low tables on a raised platform (for which shoes should be removed). There's also a table selling a few local and imported vegan groceries, most of which I haven't seen for sale anywhere else in Japan. I bought some vegetable crackers to snack on when I can't make it to vegan eateries.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-abLyi1EyGPs/U92v1a1084I/AAAAAAAACbY/IpEniK2R_WU/s1600/DSCF0599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-abLyi1EyGPs/U92v1a1084I/AAAAAAAACbY/IpEniK2R_WU/s1600/DSCF0599.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The vegetable crackers are delicious, and make a great on-the-go snack. They remind <br />me of similar crackers available in convenience stores all over Taiwan.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The inspiration for Vespera's Falafel&nbsp;comes from Eiji's visits to Inforshops in Europe, while touring with his band. Infoshops are centres for the distribution of information and social and political ideas, including alternatives to capitalism and the current consumer-oriented society, and often animal rights. While anyone with any background in grassroots activism, punk culture or anarchism will undoubtedly appreciate some of the posters and books tucked away on a corner bookshelf, Eiji is quick to point out that his restaurant is first and foremost a vegan restaurant, and for anyone not interested in this subculture it&nbsp;will appear to be no more than a light, pleasant touch of alternative decor. The balance is struck perfectly, with alternative information available for anyone interested in it, but a stylish vegan restaurant with delicious, healthy, affordable food for everyone else.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oeYBC845i6c/U92v1ezqwOI/AAAAAAAACbc/PaRTFMiNyEk/s1600/DSCF0591.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oeYBC845i6c/U92v1ezqwOI/AAAAAAAACbc/PaRTFMiNyEk/s1600/DSCF0591.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Koenji Station area would be very pleasant if it wasn't used primarily as a smokers lounge.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Vespera's Falafel is a 10 minute walk from Koenji Station, which is itself 10 minutes from Shinjuku Station on the Chuo Rapid train.&nbsp;Koenji (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K%C5%8Denji">Wikipedia</a>) is considered to be the centre for underground or alternative youth culture and music in Japan, and in particular it is said to be the birthplace of punk culture in Japan. It also boasts parks, temples and interesting shopping arcades, including a large number of second hand music and clothes stores.&nbsp;Also within walking distance are&nbsp;<a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/meunota-tokyo-21068">Meunota</a>&nbsp;(also good, and I intend to post on it soon) and&nbsp;<a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/poleyale-tokyo-43703">Poleyale</a>&nbsp;(vegetarian) which I haven't tried (links to Happycow). I recommend visiting Vespera's and another cafe for lunch and dinner, and in between times exploring this interesting suburb of Tokyo.<br /><br />Hours (from <a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/vesperas-falafel-and-deli-tokyo-36290">Happycow</a>): Wednesday - Sunday 11AM - 11PM.<br />Address:&nbsp;<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: &quot;arial&quot;; font-size: x-small;">杉並区高円寺南２－１５－１８ 汐沢ビル２F</span><br />Phone: 03 - 59298998 (owner/chef and waitress both speak English)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="300" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004ffb1969346d59a478&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.70237,139.649105&amp;spn=0.010455,0.010643&amp;z=15&amp;output=embed" width="250"></iframe><br /></div><small>View <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004ffb1969346d59a478&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.70237,139.649105&amp;spn=0.010455,0.010643&amp;z=15&amp;source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Koenji Vegan Restaurants</a> in a larger map</small> <br /><br /></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-20419602232665058632014-04-06T03:25:00.003-07:002014-04-06T05:09:43.791-07:00Koyasan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-unTgldwXXR4/U0EXYMNqpWI/AAAAAAAACMc/FRWm-7tUgmM/s1600/IMG_20140405_123214.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9IvgRcRLCNk/U0EUZ1nKtXI/AAAAAAAACKE/RubNHooAr5Q/s1600/IMG_20140405_115207.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9IvgRcRLCNk/U0EUZ1nKtXI/AAAAAAAACKE/RubNHooAr5Q/s1600/IMG_20140405_115207.jpg" height="368" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ichi-no Hashi (lit first bridge) to the Okuno-in cemetery.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Koyasan is a Buddhist mountain retreat about 100 km south of Osaka. A pilgrimage site for over a thousand years, Koyasan is the best place to experience a taste of life at a Japanese Buddhist temple, including sampling the all-vegan Shojin Ryori (Japanese Buddhist Cuisine).<br /><br />Koyasan is home to Kongonui-ji, the administrative centre of the Shingon Esoteric Buddhist sect, which was founded by Kukei (known posthumously as Kobo Daishi) in 819. The temple appears similar in size and style to major temples in Kyoto, but has a particularly impressive stone garden, probably the most beautiful I've ever seen. The 500 Yen entrance fee includes a cup of tea and a rice cracker, which, while rather insipid, were vegan (March 2014).<br /><br />As well as a very influential Buddhist Master and founder of the Shingon sect, Kukei was also a scholar, poet, calligrapher and civil servant, and he is perhaps most famous for inventing Kana, Japan's two phoenetic alphabets (which, together with Kanji, or Chinese characters, make up the Japanese writing system). A popular legend is that Kukei is still meditating in his tomb, waiting for the liberation of all souls.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DerzHXvJJps/U0EXKYQF51I/AAAAAAAACL0/EJ10tj7eHTM/s1600/IMG_20140405_122322.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DerzHXvJJps/U0EXKYQF51I/AAAAAAAACL0/EJ10tj7eHTM/s1600/IMG_20140405_122322.jpg" height="458" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">stone garden at Kongonui-ji</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Kukei learned much of his Buddhist teachings on a pilgrimage to Chang-an (present-day Xian), then the capital of the Tang Dynasty, from 804 to 806. During this period (as difficult as it may be to believe today) Japan revered China, and as a result both Kanji and Buddhism were 'imported' to Japan. Many Kanji (Chinese characters) have two pronunciations, with one being the original Japanese one and the other being a variant on the Chinese pronunciation. The Chinese ones are more commonly used for long words, but there are no strict rules. For example the 'san' of 'Fujisan' is a variant of the Chinese 'Shan' (mountain), whereas the traditional Japanese word for mountain is 'Yama'. Buddhism and Shintoism (the native animistic religion of Japan) didn't fit so well together at first, however they now enjoy a harmonious relationship with Shintoism dealing with matters of life (eg weddings, new year blessings) and Buddhism matters of death, such as funerals. Most Japanese consider themselves both Buddhist and Shintoist.<br /><br />Of particular interest to vegans, however, is that Chinese Buddhism (including that practised in Korea, Taiwan and other countries) strictly prohibits the eating of animals, and from my limited knowledge of Buddhism (especially Japanese Buddhism) Kobo Daishi appears to have kept this important Buddhist tenet of Ahimsa (non-violence) much better than other Japanese sects, presumably as a result of his study and connections with Chinese Buddhist Masters. The Koyasan temples which invite guests for shukubo (pilgrimage lodging) serve strictly vegan food (almost, see below), and, like in Taiwan, &nbsp;the food also does not contain onion or garlic.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QlwCtGOj8K4/U0EVs1vPhcI/AAAAAAAACKs/URNU_n23304/s1600/IMG_20140405_114154.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QlwCtGOj8K4/U0EVs1vPhcI/AAAAAAAACKs/URNU_n23304/s1600/IMG_20140405_114154.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the more traditional view of a room at Eko-in</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t29wEQ5ckr4/U0EWeaFzX3I/AAAAAAAACLE/IJ1A3eGLkRE/s1600/IMG_20140405_114515.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>I stayed at Eko-in because I was recommended it by a colleague, and would recommend it to anyone else, however there are plenty of other temples offering lodgings. Eko-in has particularly young monks who speak good English.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P8NBhEc_AHc/U0EWaxU7_oI/AAAAAAAACK8/kKnb8iSu2tw/s1600/IMG_20140405_114854.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P8NBhEc_AHc/U0EWaxU7_oI/AAAAAAAACK8/kKnb8iSu2tw/s1600/IMG_20140405_114854.jpg" height="438" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shojin-ryori (Buddhist temple cuisine) dinner at Eko-in.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The dinner was a typical, delicious shojin ryori meal, with a perfect balance of colours, tastes and textures, with breakfast being a simpler but still very satisfying meal. I opted for the simplest meal set, which (with accommodation) cost 10 000 Yen, an excellent deal given that this meal itself elsewhere would easily be at least half that. There are more elaborate options available, and with vegan food being so hard to find - and shojin ryori so expensive - it was tempting to splurge, but I personally find something a little unsettling about coming to a Buddhist pilgrimage site to gouge myself with food, however difficult it is to find elsewhere. The simplest meal was more than sufficient for my large appetite, but I'm sure the larger meals are extraordinary.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-56uEDOZWYl8/U0EmuPk_P2I/AAAAAAAACOM/TWZP3Vq83H8/s1600/DSCF4834.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-56uEDOZWYl8/U0EmuPk_P2I/AAAAAAAACOM/TWZP3Vq83H8/s1600/DSCF4834.JPG" height="271" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">breakfast at Eko-in</td></tr></tbody></table><br />&nbsp;There are cheaper lodgings available at other temples and guesthouses, and many temples offer shojin ryori to guests not staying with them.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DMvEWkH4fkI/U0EXPUdduBI/AAAAAAAACL8/kwyi_sa2kbo/s1600/IMG_20140405_122827.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DMvEWkH4fkI/U0EXPUdduBI/AAAAAAAACL8/kwyi_sa2kbo/s1600/IMG_20140405_122827.jpg" height="478" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Okuno-in cemetery</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The key attraction is Okuno-in, a cemetery containing over 200 000 burial sites, dating back over a thousand years. The cemetery is surrounded by Japanese Cedars, which give it a peaceful but sometimes eerie feel. The trees are an average of 200 - 600 years old, but some are over a thousand years old. They are chopped down (I wonder how) when they become at risk of falling over during typhoons.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q0IVqtbdM8Q/U0EXUr8HyRI/AAAAAAAACMM/N8vSFEEzlLk/s1600/IMG_20140405_123032.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q0IVqtbdM8Q/U0EXUr8HyRI/AAAAAAAACMM/N8vSFEEzlLk/s1600/IMG_20140405_123032.jpg" height="271" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the graves are over a thousand years old...</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tivaSKvRjUA/U0EXWjzmfJI/AAAAAAAACMU/8WoVvAyS5NU/s1600/IMG_20140405_123113.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tivaSKvRjUA/U0EXWjzmfJI/AAAAAAAACMU/8WoVvAyS5NU/s1600/IMG_20140405_123113.jpg" height="263" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">and some aren't.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />&nbsp;There are some strange monuments, including one for victims of world War II who died in Malaysia (of all nationalities), and apparently one (which I couldn't find) from a termite control company for the souls of its white ant victims.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-unTgldwXXR4/U0EXYMNqpWI/AAAAAAAACMc/FRWm-7tUgmM/s1600/IMG_20140405_123214.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-unTgldwXXR4/U0EXYMNqpWI/AAAAAAAACMc/FRWm-7tUgmM/s1600/IMG_20140405_123214.jpg" height="400" width="218" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not so traditional offerings to the dead: beer, sake and an energy drink.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: left;">The cemetery is divided into sections separated by three bridges, and at the end is the tomb of Kobo Daishi himself. It's important to remember that this is a sacred site, and visitors are asked not to take photographs beyond the third bridge (including Kobo Daishi's tomb and its associated temple).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ivlWzuG7_nU/U0EXf_Lwe8I/AAAAAAAACM0/HlLXBjxodRQ/s1600/IMG_20140405_123719.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ivlWzuG7_nU/U0EXf_Lwe8I/AAAAAAAACM0/HlLXBjxodRQ/s1600/IMG_20140405_123719.jpg" height="386" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These mausoleums for Daimyo (territorial lord) Matsudaira Hideyasu and his mother are about 400 years old, and are made entirely of stone.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I took the highly-informative evening tour (provided by a young monk from Eko-in who studied English in the UK, who was clearly passionate about Buddhism) and highly recommend it. It's aimed at foreign tourists with no background in Buddhism, so anyone who has studied Buddhism before probably won't learn a lot more, but the information about the cemetery and the history of Koyasan still makes it well worth the 1500 Yen. It's also available to people not staying at Eko-in.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T09KSzIfrF8/U0EXQ9VHqaI/AAAAAAAACME/zTbJhW9GXng/s1600/IMG_20140405_122932.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T09KSzIfrF8/U0EXQ9VHqaI/AAAAAAAACME/zTbJhW9GXng/s1600/IMG_20140405_122932.jpg" height="273" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The torii (gate) shown here is always used at the entrance of a Shinto shrine, but not at Buddhist temples. Their presence in this Buddhist graveyard reflects how most Japanese have, for centuries, considered themselves both Buddhist and Shintoist.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ZQZVYd0rQM/U0EXerfmthI/AAAAAAAACMs/mTKq331oFJw/s1600/IMG_20140405_123511.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--ZQZVYd0rQM/U0EXerfmthI/AAAAAAAACMs/mTKq331oFJw/s1600/IMG_20140405_123511.jpg" height="263" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These wooden monuments, in stream close to the third bridge, are to "water babies", which are either miscarried or aborted.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I couldn't help but feeling, especially at first, that Koyasan is now so commercialised that it's lost a little of the charm it must have had for most of its thousand plus-year history. Clearly shukubo (temple lodging) is big business, and the one might perhaps feel that the Shingo Sect is cashing in, and <a href="http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/biz/archives/2013/07/28/2003568315" target="_blank">this article</a> discusses how the temples have lost millions in investments with the declining value of the yen. During the morning chanting session there were about 40 guests, of which I counted four not Caucasian, two of whom were North Asian and another two East Asian, possibly Korean; I don't think there were any Japanese in the audience. However, it is a bona fide temple, and the rituals are authentic (so must be respected as such) and it's just a sign of the times that so many tourists (mostly foreigners) want to come to Koyasan, so it's expanding and developing to keep up with the times, Japan style.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eKxUomebScg/U0EoMp1AmkI/AAAAAAAACOY/ou_RPUgpr6I/s1600/DSCF4815.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eKxUomebScg/U0EoMp1AmkI/AAAAAAAACOY/ou_RPUgpr6I/s1600/DSCF4815.JPG" height="297" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Despite a huge foreign audience taking photos (flashes not allowed) these morning rituals seemed very authentic.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Like climbing Mt Fuji, this long-time pilgrimage is now a tourist event, and disappointing as that is, it also brings its own conveniences: I woke up in Yokohama, had lunch at my favourite restaurant in Osaka (Genmai Harmony) and was at Koyasan before dusk. Just don't expect to have to climb a mountain or beg for alms along the way: every self-respecting 21st century pilgrim needs luxurious public transport, wireless internet and flat screen TVs in their lodging. That said, the pilgrimage route up the mountain is still a beautiful hike, which I hope to do at some point in future. Take plenty of food and drink, as there's little available along the way, and be prepared for the weather to drop and the temperature to change suddenly.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--fJZP4EacZw/U0EVMzfQqoI/AAAAAAAACKk/UA720YT5axE/s1600/IMG_20140405_114054.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--fJZP4EacZw/U0EVMzfQqoI/AAAAAAAACKk/UA720YT5axE/s1600/IMG_20140405_114054.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A flat-screen TV is essential to any Buddhist mountain-retreat (same room as shown above).</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">One disappointment, and a warning, is that the cake in the rooms (with the tea) contains egg. One can never be too careful in Japan, but this was disappointing for a Buddhist temple!<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Z7sUGJzvqI/U0EXmXL1dqI/AAAAAAAACNE/7TwNxTJtj9Q/s1600/IMG_20140406_114113.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8Z7sUGJzvqI/U0EXmXL1dqI/AAAAAAAACNE/7TwNxTJtj9Q/s1600/IMG_20140406_114113.jpg" height="163" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Disappointing: this complimentary cake at Eko-in contains egg.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />For lunch I went to <a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/bon-an-sha-international-cafe-koyasan-38348" target="_blank">Bon An Sha International Cafe</a>, a charming little establishment run by a French woman and her Japanese husband. The lunch set could easily be made vegan, including a tofu cheesecake, and it was very reasonably priced. According to Happycow there is also <a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/san-bon-restaurant-koyasan-42378" target="_blank">San Bon</a>, but when I visited they had sold out by early afternoon. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wV1VqT9l8mA/U0EbnArIe2I/AAAAAAAACNk/1oiA_iyDCb8/s1600/koyasan+cafe+bon+an+shan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wV1VqT9l8mA/U0EbnArIe2I/AAAAAAAACNk/1oiA_iyDCb8/s1600/koyasan+cafe+bon+an+shan.jpg" height="400" width="310" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch from Bon An Sha Cafe, Koyasan</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I went for a walk into the mountains behind the main town. There was nothing spectacular about the views, but the scenery was still very beautiful, and I always enjoy breathing the mountain air. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n1WUonaXY6A/U0EW3r0VF0I/AAAAAAAACLU/ePrL49O_8Yw/s1600/IMG_20140405_121639.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-n1WUonaXY6A/U0EW3r0VF0I/AAAAAAAACLU/ePrL49O_8Yw/s1600/IMG_20140405_121639.jpg" height="440" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the view from the mountains behind Koyasan township</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Q30ZCDBU5A/U0EW63fQ3EI/AAAAAAAACLk/7HCV2yYwuCg/s1600/IMG_20140405_121817.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> <br /><br />And it's always nice to stumble on small shrines and temples. Like in Kyoto, I often enjoy visiting these serene, deserted sites more than the big-ticket temples.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Q30ZCDBU5A/U0EW63fQ3EI/AAAAAAAACLk/7HCV2yYwuCg/s1600/IMG_20140405_121817.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Q30ZCDBU5A/U0EW63fQ3EI/AAAAAAAACLk/7HCV2yYwuCg/s1600/IMG_20140405_121817.jpg" height="337" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">walkway up to a mystery shrine I found while exploring the Koyasan mountains</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Getting to Koyasan (the easy way) is an experience in itself. The easiest way is to take the a Nankai train from Namba(Nankai) station to Hashimoto, and take the spectacular cable car up the mountain. It's well worth buying a Koyasan Discount Ticket, which includes round-trip train tickets, bus travel at Koyasan and discounts to some attractions. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_9ozgw8GoXs/U0EVCdN4mzI/AAAAAAAACKc/B9cvu8kJHkM/s1600/IMG_20140405_113707.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_9ozgw8GoXs/U0EVCdN4mzI/AAAAAAAACKc/B9cvu8kJHkM/s1600/IMG_20140405_113707.jpg" height="392" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The train ride to Koyasan passes through some beautiful mountain scenery.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-irIaBxI_qDY/U0EVAUxWGnI/AAAAAAAACKU/Ut-ElfM9TWQ/s1600/IMG_20140405_113857.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-irIaBxI_qDY/U0EVAUxWGnI/AAAAAAAACKU/Ut-ElfM9TWQ/s1600/IMG_20140405_113857.jpg" height="302" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Koyasan cable car</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Note that the more expensive 'Limited Express' ticket only entitles one to a limited express on the way TO Koyasan; to ride a limited express on the way back is another 500 Yen (nothing to worry about, but I thought it was a bit strange). The whole journey by limited express takes about 1.5 hours by limited express trains, and &nbsp;two hours by normal (express) trains. It's a very enjoyable ride.<br /><br />If you go to Osaka by shinkansen, I highly recommend a visit to <a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/genmai-harmony-osaka-21711" target="_blank">Genmai Harmony</a>, which is on the way from Shin-Osaka.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D8ozuDJE6D0/U0EUzb7M0jI/AAAAAAAACKQ/vZdRPbQzEmk/s1600/IMG_20140405_113409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D8ozuDJE6D0/U0EUzb7M0jI/AAAAAAAACKQ/vZdRPbQzEmk/s1600/IMG_20140405_113409.jpg" height="302" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">lunch at Genmai Harmony, near Shin-Osaka Station.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Overall I would highly recommend a trip to Koyasan to anyone spending a few days in Kansai. I would make at least two days (preferably three or more) in Kyoto a higher priority, but I would put Koyasan ahead of Osaka. I aim to write up Kyoto in the near future, but for the meantime I recommend spending hours and hours just walking and finding your own beautiful, sacred spots, and eating at Morpho Cafe and Vegans Cafe and Restaurant (upmarket) and for simpler but still amazingly delicious meals at Veggie Cafe and Sujata.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t29wEQ5ckr4/U0EWeaFzX3I/AAAAAAAACLE/IJ1A3eGLkRE/s1600/IMG_20140405_114515.jpg"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t29wEQ5ckr4/U0EWeaFzX3I/AAAAAAAACLE/IJ1A3eGLkRE/s1600/IMG_20140405_114515.jpg" height="255" width="400" /></a></div></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-31539499971789949912014-03-26T03:11:00.000-07:002017-09-24T01:22:22.237-07:00Cafe Rappa<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;">Unfortunately Cafe Rappa has closed permanently closed. Please let me know if it updates. Thank you. </span></span></div><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MYEv_pvyhtQ/UzAD5fKEw4I/AAAAAAAACJI/9YPCG5WxTVE/s1600/tmp_DSCF4675_edit0-846352950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MYEv_pvyhtQ/UzAD5fKEw4I/AAAAAAAACJI/9YPCG5WxTVE/s1600/tmp_DSCF4675_edit0-846352950.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cafe Rappa, Nakano, Tokyo</td></tr></tbody></table><br />&nbsp;<a href="http://www.cafe-rappa.com/" target="_blank">Cafe Rappa</a> is a charming little vegan cafe in Nakano, about 20 minutes by train from Shinjuku Station. It features a pleasant, relaxing interior and delicious vegan food, at very reasonable prices.<br /><br />I arrived quite late, and the helpful English-speaking owner suggested I get the curry plate, which was a delicious meal and a great deal at only 900 Yen. The menu is only in Japanese, but the owner was happy to explain it to me in English.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cuab0JQGVIo/UzADqH6dj7I/AAAAAAAACJA/VLPxGyJpbEU/s1600/tmp_DSCF4670_edit0947267273.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="500" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cuab0JQGVIo/UzADqH6dj7I/AAAAAAAACJA/VLPxGyJpbEU/s1600/tmp_DSCF4670_edit0947267273.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This two-curry set was delicious, and a great deal at only 900 Yen.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Cafe Rappa serves a variety of hot, cold and alcoholic drinks. I had a coffee alternative (I think it was Inca) made with hot soymilk, cappuccino style. It was delicious.&nbsp; The owner is clearly passionate about healthy food.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8qDR0N_Uu-U/UzAEYOQIdbI/AAAAAAAACJQ/fj-hdNjWIDI/s1600/tmp_DSCF4669_edit0-522428732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8qDR0N_Uu-U/UzAEYOQIdbI/AAAAAAAACJQ/fj-hdNjWIDI/s1600/tmp_DSCF4669_edit0-522428732.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">coffee alternative, cappucino style</td></tr></tbody></table><br />If you're in or around Nakano or Shinjuku I highly recommend Cafe Rappa for dinner, or an evening hangout. It's also a good option for a meal if you're in Tokyo late (other options include Vege Herb Saga, Nagi Shokudo and Pure Cafe).&nbsp; <br /><br /><b>Opening Hours:</b><br />Tue - Sat: 11:30AM - 10:00PM. <br />Closed Sun - Mon<br /><br />It's about a five minute walk from Araiyakushimae Station on the Seibu Shinjuku line. You'll probably need to take (at least) two trains, but it's worth the effort.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><!--- <iframe frameborder="0" height="300" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms? msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004f558533 d9daeac492&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.71562,139 .673449&amp;spn=0.002613,0.00457&amp;z=17&amp;outp ut=embed" width="425"></iframe><br /><small>View <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?%20msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004f558533%20d9daeac492&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.71562,139%20.673449&amp;spn=0.002613,0.00457&amp;z=17&amp;sour%20ce=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Cafe Rappa</a> in a larger map</small>--></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="300" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004f558533d9daeac492&amp;msa=0&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.715646,139.673202&amp;spn=0.002613,0.00456&amp;z=17&amp;output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small>View <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004f558533d9daeac492&amp;msa=0&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.715646,139.673202&amp;spn=0.002613,0.00456&amp;z=17&amp;source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Cafe Rappa</a> in a larger map</small></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-74215380429915719722013-11-16T01:59:00.001-08:002014-10-19T10:46:58.689-07:00Loving Hut Tokyo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><b>Updated: April 2014</b> <br /><br />Japan's only <a href="http://lovinghut.jp/" target="_blank">Loving Hut</a> has been around for several years, but recently moved from Shinjuku to Jimbocho. While down a small alley and not in a prominent location one would easily stumble upon, it's only a few minutes walk from Jimbocho Station and is well worth the short trip from central Tokyo to visit it. The new location has a larger interior than the old one, but is an equally pleasant place to dine and relax, out of the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wENV9i3cKQE/Uoc9lQ2p2eI/AAAAAAAACEI/IGpChjsmZ-A/s1600/DSCF3343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wENV9i3cKQE/Uoc9lQ2p2eI/AAAAAAAACEI/IGpChjsmZ-A/s400/DSCF3343.JPG" height="302" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The new Jimbocho Location is more spacious, with about half a dozen tables.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The new location serves an expanded version of its older menu, and some new favourites, such as Ma Po Tofu and enormous fried dumplings (known as gyoza in Japanese).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gkdclfv1_jk/Uoc_jQ-ekmI/AAAAAAAACEw/nf5yqKeV2mk/s1600/IMAG0994.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Gkdclfv1_jk/Uoc_jQ-ekmI/AAAAAAAACEw/nf5yqKeV2mk/s640/IMAG0994.jpg" height="240" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These fried dumplings are the largest I've ever seen. I should have photographed them with something else in the picture for comparison.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />They also produce their own ginger ale, which can be served hot or with cold mineral water. Non-alcoholic beer is also served.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LrlSjud0a74/UodBrJK90nI/AAAAAAAACFM/ddU3xeoiG8Q/s1600/LH_Tokyo_beers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LrlSjud0a74/UodBrJK90nI/AAAAAAAACFM/ddU3xeoiG8Q/s400/LH_Tokyo_beers.jpg" height="261" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">non-alcoholic beer and ginger beer made with cold mineral water</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Perhaps the most significant addition to the Loving Hut is the new all-you-can-eat Dim Sum buffet. While there's nothing misleading in the name, as the menu includes many Hong Kong style favourites, anyone who's familiar with Taiwan will recognise the buffet as a typical (but very good) Taiwanese buffet, with many of the traditional Taiwanese favourites. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pFZ-7KfKn3E/Uoc-3qGhBdI/AAAAAAAACEg/6qCHyJO4y-A/s1600/DSCF3375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pFZ-7KfKn3E/Uoc-3qGhBdI/AAAAAAAACEg/6qCHyJO4y-A/s640/DSCF3375.JPG" height="546" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are a variety of different plates and dipping bowls available, for a more Japanese dim sum experience. But excited by the huge variety I dropped back into my Taiwan ways, loading up one large plate. The Taiwanese tea is a nice addition to the meal.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />All are cooked to perfection, and the busy staff never seem to stop bringing out fresh plates of delicious dishes.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eBcbYpxqYYU/Uoc_SELuKLI/AAAAAAAACEo/NzwuBoUhccs/s1600/DSCF3390.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eBcbYpxqYYU/Uoc_SELuKLI/AAAAAAAACEo/NzwuBoUhccs/s400/DSCF3390.JPG" height="356" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Round two didn't look so good (because of how I arranged it on my plate), but I needed to try some of the dishes I didn't the first time.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The buffet is now served for dinner on Friday (2000 Yen) and lunch on Saturday (1200 Yen). Many of the dishes can be enjoyed as part of the dim sum set for weekday lunches, which is also an excellent meal at only 1000 Yen.<br /><br /><b>Cooking Workshop</b><br />The Loving Hut has also opened a cooking workshop during weekday evenings (except Friday) and Friday lunchtime. I hope to try it in the near future, and will update when I do.<br /><br /><b>Mock Meats</b><br />The shop also sells frozen mock meats (imported from Taiwan) for 630 Yen, so it's worth stocking up if you like them. Most mock meats made in Japan contain dairy products and/or egg, so this is the place for trustworthy fake meats if you like them. They also sell vegan-related and spiritual books and related items.&nbsp; <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hPGLJDbdo4w/UodBK2uTfkI/AAAAAAAACFE/nhiLb23di50/s1600/IMAG0979.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hPGLJDbdo4w/UodBK2uTfkI/AAAAAAAACFE/nhiLb23di50/s400/IMAG0979.jpg" height="400" width="282" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These fake meats are the best deal I know of in Taiwan, and being produced by the Loving Hut company, one can be sure they are vegan.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The Loving Hut also sells <a href="http://lovinghut.jp/?page_id=892" target="_blank">boxed lunches</a> from 11:30 - 14:00. At 600 Yen, these are an excellent option for a cheap, healthy, delicious vegan meal on the go. I remember several years ago taking two lunchboxes with me when I climbed Mt Fuji, and eating them cold on the mountain the next day. They weren't ideal in the circumstances, but provided me with much-needed energy before the climb ahead.<br /><br />The Loving Hut often hold a staff selling vegan food at festivals, such as Earth Day and of course the Tokyo Veg Festa (vegetarian festival) in October, Japan's largest vegetarian event. Their booth always seem to have a long cue, and run out of main dishes early. During these times the main store closes, <a href="http://lovinghut.jp/" target="_blank">check their website</a> for any announcements of closures or changes to opening hours. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hNKnOBzB4Ww/UodAV3Tak9I/AAAAAAAACE8/MaURuJmw2l8/s1600/DSCF0410.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hNKnOBzB4Ww/UodAV3Tak9I/AAAAAAAACE8/MaURuJmw2l8/s400/DSCF0410.JPG" height="320" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a Loving Hut stall at the (otherwise disappointing) Eco Life Fair, 2013.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Loving Hut is a great place to go for a simple, affordable and delicious vegan meal in Tokyo, and the new Dim Sum lunch and Saturday buffet are in my opinion the best-value vegan meals in Tokyo. (Vespera's Falafel and Phono Kafe in Kamata are also excellent value.)&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://lovinghut.jp/?page_id=524" target="_blank"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><a href="http://lovinghut.jp/?page_id=524" target="_blank">Opening Hours</a> (updated August 2014)</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2014 Update: The Loving Hut now list their opening times on this Google Calendar, so please check it before going.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><iframe frameborder="0" height="600" scrolling="no" src="https://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=ofkbd6efoqtqjsvv3voqvj7sbm8irh3e%40import.calendar.google.com&amp;ctz=Asia/Tokyo" style="border: 0;" width="800"></iframe> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Monday - Thursday</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">11:30 - 17:00&nbsp; Lunch &amp; Tea Time (Dim sum lunch set available until 14:00)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Friday</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">11:30 - 17:00&nbsp; Lunch &amp; Tea Time (Dim sum lunch set available until 14:00)</div><div>17:30 - 21:00 Dinner Buffet (L.O. 20:30)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Saturday</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">11:30 - 15:30 Lunch buffet (L.O. 15:00)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Loving Hut is closed on Sunday.</div><br />Cooking workshops are now available by arrangement. The Loving Hut also does catering for parties and other group functions - details all at their <a href="http://lovinghut.jp/">website</a>.<br /><br /><b>Directions</b><br />Go to Jimbocho Station and take Exit A5.<br />Walk around the corner so you are heading north.<br />Walk north about 250m until you see a small yellow Loving Hut sign.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ugeFpv5FlxI/UogZmes5wpI/AAAAAAAACFo/elg_RCANyKA/s1600/IMAG0968.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ugeFpv5FlxI/UogZmes5wpI/AAAAAAAACFo/elg_RCANyKA/s320/IMAG0968.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />Take that alley, and the Loving Hut is on the second floor of a small building on the right, about 50m down the alley.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5NROJMrzujc/Uoga1D_GE6I/AAAAAAAACFw/DaMS3vFUuc0/s1600/DSCF3321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5NROJMrzujc/Uoga1D_GE6I/AAAAAAAACFw/DaMS3vFUuc0/s320/DSCF3321.JPG" height="286" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="400" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&amp;source=s_d&amp;saddr=Unknown+road&amp;daddr=Loving+Hut+Tokyo+%4035.6984011609633,139.75755706424025&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=FcqtIAIdL4tUCA%3BFeG2IAId9YdUCA&amp;aq=0&amp;oq=jimbocho+station&amp;sll=35.696981,139.759033&amp;sspn=0.003111,0.006191&amp;dirflg=w&amp;mra=dme&amp;mrsp=0&amp;sz=18&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.697247,139.757692&amp;spn=0.003485,0.00456&amp;z=17&amp;output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br /><br />As of October 2014 this map is not working, probably due to the creation of the new Google Map Engines. Please click on the link and it will bring up a map with correct walking directions (300 metres) from Jimbocho Station.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><small><a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&amp;source=embed&amp;saddr=Unknown+road&amp;daddr=Loving+Hut+Tokyo+%4035.6984011609633,139.75755706424025&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=FcqtIAIdL4tUCA%3BFeG2IAId9YdUCA&amp;aq=0&amp;oq=jimbocho+station&amp;sll=35.696981,139.759033&amp;sspn=0.003111,0.006191&amp;dirflg=w&amp;mra=dme&amp;mrsp=0&amp;sz=18&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.697247,139.757692&amp;spn=0.003485,0.00456&amp;z=17" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">View Larger Map</a></small> </div>&nbsp; <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b6Hza9i2hNg/Uoc-kA-eZJI/AAAAAAAACEY/xwnpHQaehkk/s1600/IMAG0992.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b6Hza9i2hNg/Uoc-kA-eZJI/AAAAAAAACEY/xwnpHQaehkk/s640/IMAG0992.jpg" height="160" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As of April 2014 this dish no longer appears to be on the menu.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KB1KLxKX4jU/Uoc-P1YupbI/AAAAAAAACEQ/r3feeuGn3cw/s1600/DSCF3332.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KB1KLxKX4jU/Uoc-P1YupbI/AAAAAAAACEQ/r3feeuGn3cw/s640/DSCF3332.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 'Loving Burger' has been a staple of the Tokyo Loving Hut for years, and is typical of Loving Hut food worldwide: simple, healthy, appealing to non-vegans and very well priced at around 1000 Yen. Maybe discontinued as of April 2014.</td></tr></tbody></table></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-25500072873585139852013-11-09T18:50:00.000-08:002017-08-21T19:42:15.680-07:00Vegetarian Indian Restaurants in Tokyo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;">Summary </span></h2><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">All links stay in pages except those in boxes below.&nbsp;</span> </span><br /><span style="background-color: white;">For the best Indian meal in Tokyo, including mouth-watering South Indian dishes such as dosas and idli, head to <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#vege">Vege Herb Saga</a>. While the restaurant has expanded in recent years and hired a few more staff members, food is still cooked individually from fresh ingredients, so you may have a wait for your food (but it will be well worth it). For a new alternative South Indian option, with a slightly nicer venue and not as good food, which serves alcohol and allows smoking at the tables, head to the newer <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#vegkitchen">Veg Kitchen</a> around the corner. For a small, pleasant restaurant serving fairly authentic Indian food with an interesting Japanese twist, head to <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#gopinathas">Gopinathas</a>. For <i>prasadam</i> (blessed Hare Krishna food) head to <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#govindas">Govindas Edogawa</a>, where they have become increasingly willing to cater to vegans. They have the only evening vegetarian buffet in the weekend in Tokyo. And for insipid, overpriced "Indian" food in a setting as pleasant as an underground basement can possibly be, which is good for introducing "Indian" food to someone who has never eaten spicy food before (and doesn't want to try it) head to one of the many <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#nataraj">Nataraj</a> chain stores. </span><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><h2>Why Indian in Japan? </h2></div>Confession time: as much as I like living in Japan (which I really do) I'm not the biggest fan of Japanese food. Japanese food is deservedly famous for its beautiful presentation; it's said that this practice stems from tougher times in the past, when little food was available, so presenting it so elegantly was the best people could do, and over time this came to be believed to make the food taste better - something I've come to understand, strange as that may sound. I do appreciate a good bowl of ramen or plate of sushi, or shojin ryori feast, but for me no arrangement of rice and vegetables, however fresh, perfectly cooked and impeccably presented, can beat the fire and spice of an authentic Indian meal. This post is to introduce my favourite vegetarian Indian restaurants in Tokyo.<br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="vege"></a> Vege Herb Saga&nbsp;</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Go here because: <b>&nbsp; </b><br /><b>You want the best Indian food in Tokyo.&nbsp;&nbsp;</b><br />You want <b>South Indian food</b>.&nbsp;<b> </b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table border="1" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody><tr> <td><br />Name in Japanese: ヴェジハーブサーガ<br />11:15 - 15:00 (Last Order: 14:30); 17:15 - 23:00 (Last Order: 22:30) <br />Address: 東京都台東区上野5-22-1 東鈴ビルB<br /><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/%E3%83%B4%E3%82%A7%E3%82%B8%E3%83%8F%E3%83%BC%E3%83%96%E3%82%B5%E3%83%BC%E3%82%AC" target="_blank">Address in Google Maps</a> <br /><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E3%83%B4%E3%82%A7%E3%82%B8%E3%83%8F%E3%83%BC%E3%83%96%E3%82%B5%E3%83%BC%E3%82%AC" target="_blank">Directions from your location in Google Maps</a><br />Two minutes walk from the South Exit of <b>JR Okachimachi Station</b> on the JR Yamanote and Keihin Tohoku Lines. It is also near several subway stations. I recommend having an explore around this very old Tokyo suburb. It would make a good stop before (or after) visiting Ueno Park.&nbsp; <br />Please note that the restaurant moved to this nicer venue in 2015.<br /><a href="http://www.vegeherbsaga.com/menu.html" target="_blank">Website</a>, <a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/vege-herb-saga-tokyo-35170" target="_blank">Happycow</a> <br /><span itemprop="telephone">Phone: (03) 5818-4154</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Vege Herb Saga&nbsp;is my favourite Indian restaurant in Tokyo, and I think I share this with most resident vegetarian Indians and in the city.It's the 'real deal' for Jain food. <br /><br /><table> </table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O4GLKCmmCYk/Vas-4eykzMI/AAAAAAAAEoI/Soc5rxHu4uA/s1600/Mysore%2BMasala%2BDosa%2BVeggie%2BHerb%2BSaga.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="304" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O4GLKCmmCYk/Vas-4eykzMI/AAAAAAAAEoI/Soc5rxHu4uA/s640/Mysore%2BMasala%2BDosa%2BVeggie%2BHerb%2BSaga.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mysore Masala Dosa</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Vege Herb Saga is a little piece of India, right here in Tokyo, down to the beaming chef in a white jacket and, most importantly, steaming hot delicious South Indian foods, such as Dosas and Idli. The owner regularly imports fresh spices from India (I've seen them be roasted on the same grill that will cook your Masala Dosa) and the effect on the flavour is certainly noticeable compared with all other Indian restaurants I've visited outside India. Resident Indians tell me that this extra effort - and expense - with the spices makes Veggie Herb Saga's food even better than what they can cook at home. Vege Herb Saga is the place to come for the best Indian food in Tokyo.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9QT-Rglqr7w/VRwpfB9oh2I/AAAAAAAAEGY/1ghx5Wh4o8c/s1600/Veggie%2BHerb%2BSaga%2BMasala%2BVada.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9QT-Rglqr7w/VRwpfB9oh2I/AAAAAAAAEGY/1ghx5Wh4o8c/s1600/Veggie%2BHerb%2BSaga%2BMasala%2BVada.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Masala Vada</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I recently met the owner, who explained that there are several hundred <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism" target="_blank">Jains</a> (strict vegetarians who live their lives in such a way to minimise all harm to living creatures) including himself living in the surrounding community - including himself - mostly in the diamond trade. He started the restaurant several years ago because, while his business was going fine, he and his visiting business people needed somewhere to eat, as Jains have an even harder time finding food than vegans (see below). During its first few years Veggie Herb Saga was housed in a rather unappealing basement, and customers would be expected to share tables with strangers (where I had many of the most interesting conversations I've had anywhere with others who had sought out Jain food in Tokyo) however it also attracted a following among resident vegetarians and vegans, and Japanese interested in Indian food; On a television show it won fifth place among all Indian restaurants in Tokyo.The restaurant has since moved into a larger, more pleasant restaurant, which appears to be a converted Karaoke bar, and on one of my visits the owner whipped out the Karaoke equipment and began singing.<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Jain Principles: No Smoking or Alcohol</h3>&nbsp;Jains don't eat onion, garlic or other root vegetables, as harvesting them kills the plant and disturbs more insect life than fruits and vegetables which can be picked without uprooting the plant. The restaurant does, however, offer foods which contain these for non-Jains, however in fitting with Jain principles the restaurant does not serve alcohol or allow smoking. Whatever ones opinion of Jainism and spirituality in general, like the Tokyo Loving Hut, this demonstrates a strong commitment to principles, as the standard restaurant business model in Japan is to 'give away' food and make a profit on drinks. Please bear this in mind if the restaurant appears expensive (though actually prices are hardly higher than other non-vegetarian restaurants).<br />As an interesting aside, while Jains do consume dairy products, an increasing number of Jains (especially younger ones) are turning vegan, especially in the UK. <br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Menu &amp; Prices</h3>The menu is perhaps the largest of any Indian restaurant in Tokyo. It includes all popular North and South Indian favourites, and a few completely new dishes invented by the chef.&nbsp; A drink, starter and main meal should come to 2000 - 3000 Yen. Vegan items are clearly labelled, but it's best to remind the waiter that you are vegan so can't eat any milk, butter, cream, ghee etc. </div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /></div><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Veg Kitchen </h2>Go here because:<br /><b>You want to drink or smoke with your meal. </b><br />Veggie Herb Saga is closed between lunch and dinner.<br />You don't want to dine in a basement. <br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table border="1" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody><tr> <td><br />11:00 - 23:00&nbsp; <br />Address:<span class="_50f4">3-44-8, Taito</span><span class="_50f4">, Taito-ku, Tokyo, Japan</span><br /><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Veg+Kitchen+Tokyo" target="_blank">Address in Google Maps</a> <br /><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/Veg+Kitchen+Tokyo" target="_blank">Directions from your location in Google Maps</a><br />It's walkable from JR Okachimachi Station and the two subway stations Naka Okachimachi and Shin Okachimachi Stations.&nbsp; <br />I recommend having an explore around this very old Tokyo suburb. It would make a good stop before (or after) visiting Ueno Park.&nbsp; <br />Please note that the restaurant moved to this nicer venue in 2015.<br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/vegkitchentokyo" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/veg-kitchen-tokyo-48092" target="_blank">Happycow,</a><span itemprop="telephone"> <a href="mailto:vegkitchentokyo@gmail.com" target="_blank">Email</a></span><br /><span itemprop="telephone">Phone: </span>(03) 5817-8165</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Yet another vegetarian Indian restaurant has joined the Tokyo scene, this one another South Indian establishment run by a former chef from Veggie Herb Saga. When I heard he was leaving to run his own restaurant I hoped it would be an upmarket dining establishment, in a different locality, giving the option of a simple ‘Indian Kitchen’ at Veggie Herb Saga or fine dining elsewhere, as these would have complemented each other nicely. Unfortunately it’s a few minutes walk away, serving similar food at similar prices, thus competing for the same Jain or other Indian vegetarian clientele. <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f0rax-AXJq0/U636gQcP6WI/AAAAAAAACXU/qwVBffnO8zU/s1600/DSCF0112.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f0rax-AXJq0/U636gQcP6WI/AAAAAAAACXU/qwVBffnO8zU/s1600/DSCF0112.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Masala Dosa is the healthy, quintessential South Indian vegan meal. </td></tr></tbody></table><br />Prices at the Veg Kitchen are similar to Veggie Herb Saga, and staff are very friendly and welcoming at both. Both are open similar hours, but the Veg Kitchen stays open between lunch and dinner. The Veg Kitchen originally offered an alternative in a much nicer venue than Veggie Herb Saga, but now that Veggie Herb Saga has moved there is little difference in venue, but the Veg Kitchen is still more pleasant, being a first- and second-floor restaurant, while Veggie Herb Saga is underground.&nbsp; <br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Smoking and Drinking</h3>Unlike the Veggie Herb Saga, where Jain principles strictly forbid drugs, the Veg Kitchen serves alcohol and allows customers to smoke at their tables. This may be a good or bad thing depending on the customer, but I much prefer the atmosphere (literally and figuratively) at Veggie Herb Saga.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FxgPqSFB640/U636fCUbzWI/AAAAAAAACWs/ioFK6mvpV1o/s1600/DSCF0091.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FxgPqSFB640/U636fCUbzWI/AAAAAAAACWs/ioFK6mvpV1o/s1600/DSCF0091.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2nd-floor dining</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The Veg Kitchen has a wider menu, including some “Indian Chinese” dishes, one of which I liked and one I didn't. The owner is very happy to accommodate vegans, however it’s necessary to ask, and when he ran through the menu he missed some items which were clearly not vegan. He also said that nan were vegan, which is possible but seems unlikely, as the menu traditionally calls for milk (and without it it’s not really nan). Vegan items are labelled on the menu at Veggie Herb Saga and I’ve never had any problems.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kjkGyKIAbNo/U636gxCgDtI/AAAAAAAACXQ/TSNjqvbTCpQ/s1600/DSCF0115.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kjkGyKIAbNo/U636gxCgDtI/AAAAAAAACXQ/TSNjqvbTCpQ/s1600/DSCF0115.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This Indian-Chinese dish was much too oily and salty for my taste.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />&nbsp;The Veg Cafe serve alcohol, which may appeal to some, however they also allow smoking during dinner, which can be quite unpleasant (if you don't smoke). They also provide Hookah's which further add to the smoke in the air. <br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MHA8UEZShqk/U636eU5MapI/AAAAAAAACWY/wQPr85LxGDQ/s1600/DSCF0088.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MHA8UEZShqk/U636eU5MapI/AAAAAAAACWY/wQPr85LxGDQ/s1600/DSCF0088.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Veg Kitchen are quite accommodating to vegans, but at Veggie Herb Saga vegan items are labelled on the menu.</td></tr></tbody></table></div>&nbsp; <br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Food Quality&nbsp; </h3>During my first visit to the Veg Kitchen the Chinese dish was much too salty and greasy for my liking, the masala dosa and lacha paratha were both a little too well done, and I think they use typical curry powders and mixes. In subsequent visits I've found dishes somewhat hit and miss, with some comparable to Veggie Herb Saga and some not. Their food is at least as good as most other Indian restaurants in Japan, and serving South Indian they are among the most vegan-friendly too, but in all fairness Veggie Herb Saga is a cut above for freshness and quality of food.<br /><br />In summary, these two restaurants offer a different South Indian experience, and I hope business continues to go well for both.<br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Vege Herb Saga and Veg Kitchen Map</h2><iframe height="480" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=zAhFEuuKIoHU.kET_vwRBdoJA" width="100%"></iframe> <br /><br /><br /><span style="color: #660000;"><b></b></span> <br /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #660000;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="gopinathas"></a> </span>Gopinatha </h2>Go here because:<br /><b>You want to try Indian food with an interesting, Japanese twist. </b><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><table border="1" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody><tr> <td>Name in Japanese: ゴピナータ <br />Wed - Fri: 12:00 - 14:30, 18:00 - 20:30<br />Sat: 12:00 - 14:30, 17:00 - 20:30<br />Sun: 12:00 - 14:30, 17:30 - 20:30<br />Closed on Monday &amp; Tuesday.&nbsp; <br />Address: 5-17-10 Nakano, Nakano-ku Tokyo <br />Address in Japanese: <span class="_Xbe">〒164-0001, 中野5丁目17−10</span> <br />(03) 3387-8998 <br />8 minutes walk from <b>Nakano Station</b> on the JR Chuo Line. <br /><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/%E3%82%B4%E3%83%94%E3%83%8A%E3%83%BC%E3%82%BF+Nakano+Tokyo" target="_blank">Address in Google Maps</a> <br /><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E3%82%B4%E3%83%94%E3%83%8A%E3%83%BC%E3%82%BF+Nakano+Tokyo" target="_blank">Directions from your location in Google Maps</a><br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/vegkitchentokyo" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://gopinathasblog.blogspot.tw/" target="_blank">Website</a>, <a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/gopinatha-tokyo-37400" target="_blank">Happycow,</a><span itemprop="telephone">&nbsp;</span><br /><span itemprop="telephone">Phone: </span>(03) 5817-8165</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Gopinatha's is essentially the old Govinda's Restaurant (not to be confused for Govinda's Edogawa-ku, below, a separate establishment) which has been reopened by its former (and current) chef.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cm_lQM-xv3M/U-iIQ-dE4jI/AAAAAAAACjc/A_kuOY-Dj-A/s1600/gopinathas+meal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cm_lQM-xv3M/U-iIQ-dE4jI/AAAAAAAACjc/A_kuOY-Dj-A/s1600/gopinathas+meal.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pakoras and Curry at Gopinathas. The tomato sauce on the Pakoras is amazing.</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Gopinatha's food is perhaps slightly more 'Japanisiced' Indian than that at Vege Herb Saga or the Veg Kitchen, but its Ja<span style="font-family: inherit;">panese twist add<span style="font-family: inherit;">s to the flavour rather than diluting it, as is the case at Natara<span style="font-family: inherit;">j (where chilli and <span style="font-family: inherit;">garam masala are o<span style="font-family: inherit;">ptional, paid extras). <span style="font-family: inherit;">G<span style="font-family: inherit;">opinatha's food <span style="font-family: inherit;">certainly fresh and flavourful</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>, and the owner/chef is very happy to make a set vegan, and they are excellent value. Gopinathas is well worth a visit, especially if you are in the area or you would like an Indian meal but don't have an hour or two to wait or want your own table. The owner is clearly pas<span style="font-family: inherit;">sionat<span style="font-family: inherit;">e about <span style="font-family: inherit;">veg<span style="font-family: inherit;">etarian<span style="font-family: inherit;">ism, and has recently enjoyed vegetarian food in Taiwan.&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><span style="color: #660000;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span><span style="color: #660000;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"></span></b></span><br /><br /><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><h2 style="text-align: left;">Govindas Edogawa-ku</h2>Go here because: <b>You follow ISKCON and want <i>Prasadam</i> (blessed food) or a large, buffet meal.</b><br /><b>&nbsp;</b> <br /><table border="1" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody><tr> <td>Name in Japanese: ゴヴィンダス <br />Mon - Fri (a la carte): 11:00 - 15:00, 17:00 - 21:00<br />Sat - Sun (Buffet): 10:30 - 14:30, 17:30 - 21:30<br />Address in Japanese: 東京都江戸川区船堀2-23-4 <br />Address in English: <br />2-23-4 Funabori, Edogawa-ku, Tokyo Japan: <span class="_Xbe">〒164-0001, 中野5丁目17−10</span><br /><span class="_Xbe">A few minutes' walk from Funabori Station, half an hour from Shinjuku Station on the Shinjuku Line. &nbsp;</span> <br /><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/%E3%82%B4%E3%83%B4%E3%82%A3%E3%83%B3%E3%83%80%E3%82%B9+%E8%88%B9%E5%A0%80+Japan" target="_blank">Address in Google Maps</a> <br /><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E3%82%B4%E3%83%B4%E3%82%A3%E3%83%B3%E3%83%80%E3%82%B9+%E8%88%B9%E5%A0%80+Japan" target="_blank">Directions from your location in Google Maps</a><br /><a href="http://www.govindas-tokyo.com/" target="_blank">Website</a>, <a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/govindas-edogawa-ku-tokyo-27160" target="_blank">Happycow,</a><span itemprop="telephone">&nbsp;</span><br /><span itemprop="telephone">Phone: </span>(03)68072157</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjaItBvDfzQ/WZuXrg0wR1I/AAAAAAAAF5M/jbeaLeMRkNo9WMVB8QLLHrQ0I1M8xF0eACLcBGAs/s1600/Govinda%2527s%2BDosa%2B2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tjaItBvDfzQ/WZuXrg0wR1I/AAAAAAAAF5M/jbeaLeMRkNo9WMVB8QLLHrQ0I1M8xF0eACLcBGAs/s640/Govinda%2527s%2BDosa%2B2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The a la carte menu includes the largest dosas I have ever seen. </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">ISKCON, Cows and Veganism </h3>Govinda's Edogawa-ku is a vegetarian Indian restaurant associated with Tokyo's ISKCON temple, to which it is attached. ISKCON is the International Society for Krishna Consciousness, commonly known as "Hare Krishnas" (from their chant) in the west.&nbsp; ISKCON followers believe that the cow is sacred (as do Hindus) and the consumption of dairy products is an integral part of ISKCON life. Temples often have their own farms, at which the cows are treated very well so far as their welfare is concerned, and they are even cremated when they die - of course always at the end of their natural life. Unfortunately, humane as this may be (animal rights aside) it is needless to say very inefficient, and most of these farms can no longer provide enough dairy products to sustain the society's temples and restaurants, let alone all their members. So most ISKCON restaurants use dairy products from conventionally-farmed cows, which I guess in Japan probably means factory farms.&nbsp; <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6VpjJMO87UQ/VOcTxQ3ZwaI/AAAAAAAAD9I/9XSrnOv14Rw/s1600/Govindas%2BTokyo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6VpjJMO87UQ/VOcTxQ3ZwaI/AAAAAAAAD9I/9XSrnOv14Rw/s1600/Govindas%2BTokyo.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Govindas is Located inside the ISKCON temple, a few minutes' walk from Funabori Station.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />During discussions with ISKCON followers, including in New Zealand and in India, I've often met strong opposition to veganism, and while their restaurants tend to cater to vegans (perhaps due to their food's popularity among vegans) I've never found them to be very supportive of the vegan philosophy. There are, however, a small but increasing number of (usually younger) devotees (members) who are turning vegan.<br /><br />On my most recent visit two of the four main dishes were vegan, but I needed to ask the helpful waiter, as vegan items are never labelled. Moments later, the same waiter appeared with the standard basket of nan and dosas, and after I (again) explained about the milk, he confirmed it had milk (seemingly unaware still that I wouldn't want to eat it, despite asking about dairy in the curries) and later re-appeared with rotis, which, as he helpfully explained didn't contain any milk. They were, however, smeared with butter or ghee. He gave up after that. Vegans will certainly need to be careful to ensure that their meal is vegan. <br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Menu &amp; Prices</h3>Govindas have a weekend buffet (1800 Yen) which is now the only vegetarian Indian buffet in Tokyo.&nbsp; They also offer a la carte menu at all times (including weekends), with set meals (see dosa above) starting from around 1000 Yen, which are also excellent value.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sJRmb2DrozM/WZuXAa8GSBI/AAAAAAAAF5E/H6mfXqLOTV0Yzx0ZafLAadHiyDEP0eFxgCLcBGAs/s1600/Govinda%2527s%2BBuffet%2B2017.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sJRmb2DrozM/WZuXAa8GSBI/AAAAAAAAF5E/H6mfXqLOTV0Yzx0ZafLAadHiyDEP0eFxgCLcBGAs/s640/Govinda%2527s%2BBuffet%2B2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The weekend buffet is an excellent deal at 1800 Yen, especially when staff are willing to make vegan curries. </td></tr></tbody></table><br />ISKCON food is made without onion, garlic or Hing / asafoetda (a popular Indian spice) - a similar diet to the Buddhist Shojin Ryori, and Chinese Buddhist food, and similar to but less restrictive than Jain food. As such it is less flavoursome than other Indian food, but this is believed to be healthier. <br /><br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Should you Visit?&nbsp; </h3>If you are an ISKCON follower, or would like to visit the temple to learn about ISKCON, and / or sample their food, then this is the obvious place to come, and if you would like a hearty meal from an all-you-can-eat buffet then this is a good option, especially since Nataraj (see below) have discontinued their lunch buffet. However, for non-ISKCON followers, a more flavoursome (and more expensive) meal could be had without the half-hour commute to Funabori from Veggie Herb Saga or the Veg Kitchen. <br /><br /><div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Nataraj </h2><table border="1" style="width: 100%;"> <tbody><tr> <td>Name in Japanese: ナタラジ <br />This restaurant has five branches across Tokyo, including Shibuya and Ginza.&nbsp; <br />Address in Japanese: 東京都江戸川区船堀2-23-4 <br /><a href="http://www.nataraj.co.jp/en/EnglishTop.html" target="_blank">Website</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Nataraj are Tokyo's oldest Indian vegetarian restaurant, and are somewhat of an institution among vegetarians in Japan. However I think they're cashing in on their reputation, and are now well-overpriced. They used to offer a good value lunch buffet, which was good for hungry vegetarians and vegans, but these appear to have been discontinued at most branches.&nbsp; <br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Indian Food Without the Flavour</h3>Nataraj restaurants are like the antithesis of Vege Herb Saga, and in that sense they complement each other nicely. To any connoisseur of Indian food, Nataraj will have a chain-restaurant feel, and the food will taste very insipid, as if the chef forgot the spice and then watered down the curry to save money. At Veggie Herb Saga all dishes are flavoursome and spicy, being authentic Indian food, while at Nataraj food is almost flavourless by default, and chilli powder and garam masala (two essential Japanese spices used in virtually every dish) are optional, paid extras.<br /><br /></div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Menu and Prices<br /> </h3><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GIBjVYjk8BM/Vas8At9d2cI/AAAAAAAAEnw/DU7pzIDhwjM/s1600/Nataraj%2BMinato%2BKu%2BChana%2BMasala.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GIBjVYjk8BM/Vas8At9d2cI/AAAAAAAAEnw/DU7pzIDhwjM/s640/Nataraj%2BMinato%2BKu%2BChana%2BMasala.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A good vegan naan imitation and a typical, watery, overpriced "Chana Masala".</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Besides being watered down, in my opinion food tastes bland, mass-produced, with poor-quality spices. Portion sizes are very small, and a barely satisfying meal for two (including a drink each, poppadoms, a shared entree, two curries and two naans) comes to about 7,000 Yen. I'd pay this for a feast of authentic Indian food cooked to perfection from fresh ingredients at Veggie Herb Saga, but this is just too overpriced for what it is.<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Should You Go? </h3>In my opinion the Nataraj chain have just one purpose: to introduce "Indian" food to those who have not eaten it before (as is the case&nbsp; for many Japanese, who are not accustomed to spicy food). However I would strongly recommend Gopinathas (see above) in preference, as the talented chef adds a Japanese twist with herbs and spices, while food at Nataraj just tastes like the chef left out everything intended to give the dish flavour. I do appreciate that they do a vegan version of naan (see photo above), which is very rare. <br /><br />While most are underground or on a high floor, all Nataraj restaurants have a pleasant interior, and your order will be delivered very quickly. However the food quality is too low, and prices too high, for me to be able to recommend these restaurants.<br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Non-Vegetarian Indian Restaurants in Japan? </h2></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xf2NCZPCznI/Vas9bD_AHjI/AAAAAAAAEn8/yzfgth-oqx0/s1600/Kathmandhu%2BIndian%2Brestaurant%2BMatsumoto.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xf2NCZPCznI/Vas9bD_AHjI/AAAAAAAAEn8/yzfgth-oqx0/s640/Kathmandhu%2BIndian%2Brestaurant%2BMatsumoto.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In much of Japan, a chana masala from the local Indian restaurant is the best vegan option.</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp; <br />Most Indian restaurants in Japan serve North Indian food, and many have a chef who speaks some English and can prepare a vegan dish, however there are several risks involved. Many may use a pre-made non-vegetarian curry sauce for all their curries, adding chicken to a chicken curry or chick peas to a chana masala . I generally ask to speak to a chef and try to get a feeling of how honest he (it's always he) is being, and then proceed with an order if I trust he's making enough effort to ensure that my meal will be. My worst experience was at a restaurant in Nagasaki (which, not surprisingly, seems to have closed down) where the English-speaking waitress clearly understood my order, but still the roti came out smeared with ghee, the salad had a mayonnaise dressing and the curry had curd in it. They just couldn't be bothered, so I paid for the samosas (frozen on the inside and burned to a crisp on the outside) and the one roti I'd eaten, and left. This experience is, unfortunately, very common at non-vegetarian restaurants.<br /></div><div></div><div><h3 style="text-align: left;">The Nan Test </h3></div><div>The best way to test if a restaurant will cater to vegans is to ask about breads. Nan bread always contains milk (and usually egg, except at vegetarian restaurants) and must be prepared the night before and fermented overnight. If they staff quickly point out that nan bread aren't vegan, I trust them. If they don't think of it, it's a bad sign as they haven't really understood. If they promise to make a vegan one (as many do) I walk out, as it means they either have no idea or (in most cases) are just lying, telling me what they think I want to hear in order to get my meal order through as fast as possible. This of course does not apply to vegetarian restaurants like Nataraj which prepare vegan nan daily.</div><div><span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Tips for Eating at Non-Vegetarian Indian Restaurants </h3>1. Small restaurants run by one or two Indians (including the chef) are a much safer bet than large chain restaurants (such as those found in shopping malls) where staff tend to come and go, food is prepared in advance (usually with meat-based stocks) and chefs are told to follow strict recipes.&nbsp; <br /><br />2. Try to identify restaurants which are run by Hindus instead of Muslims. This seems discriminatory, but Hindus are familiar with the concept of vegetarianism, and they grow up being taught that they should be vegetarian themselves, so most hold it in high regard. Muslims, by comparison, are taught that killing animals for food is morally acceptable, as long as the animals are killed in an especially cruel manner (Halal slaughter). The difference on consciousness to vegetarianism is significant, at least from my experience. Hindu restaurants can usually be identified by gods on the walls, and never serve beef; Muslim establishments never serve pork, usually serve beef, and are more likely to specify that they use halal meat. <br /><br />3. Never order a set meal, as these curries are usually pre-made, and are likely to have animal-based stocks to appeal to local tastes.<br /><br />4. Order a dry curry, such as chana masala (chickpea curry) or (sometimes) an aloo gobi (potatoes and cauliflower), even if they're not on the menu. This means they're more likely to make it up on the spot (which a skilled Indian chef can do in minutes) and is thus a safer bet for a vegan meal. These two dishes traditionally don't use dairy products.<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Common Traps&nbsp; </h3></div><div>1. In Japan many restaurants (especially chain restaurants in shopping malls) add an egg to the pakora batter, to make it more like Japanese tempura.Likewise samosa pastry occasionally contains milk and/or egg, so it's good to ask whether or not they make it themselves. Many wait staff will have no idea, however, and may be reluctant to find out.<br /><br />2. Rotis are often smeared with ghee (clarified butter).<br /><br />3. Many staff don't think of mayonnaise (used for salad dressings) as containing milk or egg.<br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#top"><b>top of page</b></a></div></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-13546595376582587042013-10-04T19:52:00.002-07:002015-09-17T09:37:21.023-07:00Skiing in Hokkaido<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Niseko is a Meka for snow sports, boasting what some would call the best powder snow in the world (though Hakuba is also excellent).<b>&nbsp;</b>I visited three ski fields: Niseko, Kokusai and Mt Moiwa. Whereever you go, if you take just one piece of advice from this blog,&nbsp;<i>bring plenty of snack food with you</i>. Due to my late order and the Xmas backlog, my veganessentials order didn't arrive before I left, and I could really have done with all those snack bars I'd ordered, especially while travelling and on the slopes!<br /><br /><b>Getting There</b><br />The best way to get to Hokkaido for the environment is of course the train, and it's an interesting day's journey (or more if you stop off along the way) to take the shinkansen to Aomori and then an interesting trip through the world's longest undersea tunnel to Hokkaido, the Seikan Tunnel. (The Channel Tunnel has a longer undersea portion, however the the Seikan Tunnel is the longest and also the deepest rail tunnel). If you have a Japan Rail Pass (almost an essential for tourists who plan on leaving the Greater Tokyo are) it's all covered by the JR Pass, unless you want an expensive sleeper berth.<br /><br />If you do fly, you won't be alone, as the Tokyo to Sapporo is the world's busiest air route. New Chitose Airport is about an hour and a half's flight from Tokyo, and flights leave from both Haneda and Narita airports. There is a Starbucks on the third floor. (Starbucks is usually the only place one can find soymilk, with an exception being Niseko, thanks to all the Australians - edit: and Tulley's Coffee). Also, the conveyor-belt sushi restaurant nearby has a few vegan options, including pickled plum, cucumber and gourd; these three can be found in sushi restaurants all over Japan, and are usually vegan. There are small dipping bowls for soy sauce under the conveyor belt for sushi, and ginger is in a box on the table. The powdered green tea is free (help yourself). Just don't be tempted by the deep fried squid legs or the&nbsp; crab intestine sushi, quite a bargain at only 200 and 300 Yen respectively. The Tokyo-Sapporo route is reportedly the busiest air route in the world, and is flown by several carriers. Beware that while Air Asia (soon to close) and Jetstar offer some amazingly low fares for the route, they cancel planes regularly and when they do offer no compensation or even a refund, leaving the only option to take their next available flight, and if this isn't possible (ie if they want you to return two days later, but you can't due to work) then you just lose your money. I recommend booking early on a good Japanese airline (or taking the train).<br />2015 Update: Be very careful with Low Cost Carriers in Japan, and <b>don't even think about flying <a href="http://www.japanlccs.com/p/vanilla-air.html" target="_blank">Vanilla Air</a></b>. Please see my <a href="http://www.japanlccs.com/" target="_blank">LCCs in Japan</a> website for more info.&nbsp; <br /><br />Whichever way you're getting there, consider using <a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2278.html" target="_blank">Takuhaibin</a> to send your skis/snowboard (and luggage) to your hotel. It's probably cheaper than checking it in on your flight, and saves lugging them on and off trains. It's surprisingly cheap and simple, and can be done through convenience stores.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xYEKgBfBrtg/UNb6I9MDl4I/AAAAAAAAA4M/mbQIxOYqawo/s1600/DSCF7601.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xYEKgBfBrtg/UNb6I9MDl4I/AAAAAAAAA4M/mbQIxOYqawo/s400/DSCF7601.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">sushi from the conveyor belt restaurant near Starbucks, 3rd floor New Chitose Airport</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tGV6nEwiTLU/UNb9DtuHBQI/AAAAAAAAA4w/VtfT6IeV7yI/s1600/NewChitoseAirport.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tGV6nEwiTLU/UNb9DtuHBQI/AAAAAAAAA4w/VtfT6IeV7yI/s320/NewChitoseAirport.jpg" width="230" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><b><br /></b><br /><b>Niseko</b><br />Niseko is almost a 'little Australia', and during the Xmas period I'd guess three quarters of people there, including many working in the restaurants, are Aussies, and most of the rest also foreigners, including many from Hong Kong and Singapore.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dkbqk-MUpiU/UNbKEO4u_II/AAAAAAAAA3E/Brcm-8ikmZw/s1600/DSCF9082.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dkbqk-MUpiU/UNbKEO4u_II/AAAAAAAAA3E/Brcm-8ikmZw/s640/DSCF9082.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />On the slopes themselves, food is mostly a matter of survival. Most places will serve white rice and "fried potatoes". King Bell on the Hirafu Slopes serve pizzas with dairy-free bases, and a pizza base with tomato sauce and basil was better than it sounded, even by the fourth one.<br />The Grand Hirafu Area was also the best area for night skiing, largely because the Gondola runs until late.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8oLxlFL4rNM/UNbIKlNQXwI/AAAAAAAAA2s/SnKTfffbZLk/s1600/DSCF9028.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="258" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8oLxlFL4rNM/UNbIKlNQXwI/AAAAAAAAA2s/SnKTfffbZLk/s400/DSCF9028.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Best on the Niseko slopes: a vegan pizza base, chips and rice from King Bell in the Grand Hirafu &nbsp;ski area.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />At Annupuri, my favourite of the four ski areas, the Nook do a green salad, rice and "friend potatoes" - usual vegan fare. Beware that the last bus back to Hirafu leaves just after 8PM - I found out the hard way that it's a long taxi ride around the mountain, as easy as it seems to ski over it.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FAG50_PMx_A/UNbH6L9StuI/AAAAAAAAA2k/oKWVe4GmSFo/s1600/DSCF9063.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="173" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FAG50_PMx_A/UNbH6L9StuI/AAAAAAAAA2k/oKWVe4GmSFo/s320/DSCF9063.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Best of Annupuri: a vegan lunch at the Nook, Annupuri ski area.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The Niseko Village Area area was the worst, with the restaurants (including the Lookout Cafe on the slopes) seemingly dominated by the Hilton Hotel, with food and prices to match. I couldn't find anything vegan, and prices for drinks were ridiculous. I don't recommend this area.<br /><br />I never made it to the Hanozono Resort Area, so if there's a vegan cafe there I missed it.<br /><br />For dinner, or a break during lunch, walk or take the shuttle bus to the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.tajmahalgroup.com/niseko.aspx" target="_blank">Taj Mahal restaurant</a>, about half a kilometre from the Grand Hirafu area. They were happy to make food vegan (and clearly made the effort to check ingredients) and the food, while the typical North Indian fare found all over Japan, was excellent.<br /><br />On Sunday they have a buffet. Needless to say, little of it (basically Pappadoms and one curry) was vegan, but they cooked me roti, an additional Channa Masala and offered alternatives to other items not vegan. All up, it was a great deal at 1950 Yen (my other meals there were about the same price).&nbsp;The owner, originally from Bombay, has lived in Japan for fourty years, and he also has branches in Chitose (near the airport) and Sapporo.&nbsp;The Taj Mahal is the obvious choice for dinners or a good satisfying lunch while at Niseko.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xt9LuIqdcUU/UNbK6OgQQEI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/ayygGjis9W8/s1600/DSCF9100.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="521" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xt9LuIqdcUU/UNbK6OgQQEI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/ayygGjis9W8/s640/DSCF9100.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">A vegan modification of the Sunday buffet meal at the Taj Mahal - a great deal at 1950 Yen!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />They also have two buses/vans in the area, one by Seicomart, offering hot food on the go. I found the quality (not surprisingly) much lower than the restaurant, so it's well worth the walk to get the food fresh from the kitchen rather than from the microwave.<br /><br /><b>Kokusai</b><br />Kokusai, which literally translates to 'international' (though I only saw one other foreigner there, among several hundred Japanese - quite the opposite of Niseko) is about a two hour bus ride from Sapporo Station. Compared to Niseko, I found its runs to be longer and wider, and I enjoyed skiing there a lot.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vk4E64iCMs8/UOPnm8tai2I/AAAAAAAAA-0/o1mer0YZ2aA/s1600/DSCF9303.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vk4E64iCMs8/UOPnm8tai2I/AAAAAAAAA-0/o1mer0YZ2aA/s640/DSCF9303.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">the view from outside the gondola at Kokusai Ski Resort</td></tr></tbody></table><br />It also has two Gondolas to near the top of the mountain, so this and the wide, long runs meant that a greater proportion of my time was spent skiing than on chairlifts or in cues than at other skifields.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pHAGcivq0RY/UOPn9WBDZ6I/AAAAAAAAA_k/4az0QuySJR4/s1600/DSCF9311.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pHAGcivq0RY/UOPn9WBDZ6I/AAAAAAAAA_k/4az0QuySJR4/s400/DSCF9311.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Kokusai base</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ay3tfz8uqfA/UOPn-lwz0tI/AAAAAAAAA_s/du_xjvb9u0Q/s1600/DSCF9322.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ay3tfz8uqfA/UOPn-lwz0tI/AAAAAAAAA_s/du_xjvb9u0Q/s400/DSCF9322.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">once the sun came out, the views from the gondola were spectacular</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Don't expect much for lunch though. The only thing I could find at all (other than french fries) was freshly baked sweet potato (that's kumara for any kiwis reading this) from the dining area to the far right in this photo.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yvbf7DcR-FE/UOPn_up_fOI/AAAAAAAAA_0/VbwqbYNiaBY/s1600/DSCF9330.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yvbf7DcR-FE/UOPn_up_fOI/AAAAAAAAA_0/VbwqbYNiaBY/s400/DSCF9330.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">enter at the far right of this building (as seen from this direction) and sweet potato are sold at the first counter.</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--BlX9sybmzs/UOPn8ORljAI/AAAAAAAAA_c/YIPpAajcQTE/s1600/DSCF9309.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--BlX9sybmzs/UOPn8ORljAI/AAAAAAAAA_c/YIPpAajcQTE/s400/DSCF9309.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">morning tea, lunch (and dinner if you stay long enough) at Kokusai Ski Resort</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><b>Mt Moiwa Ski Resort</b><br />For a more family affair, head to Mt Moiwa Ski field, near Sapporo. This is where families come for a day skiing, and where working folk duck by for a quick night ski after work. Facilities here are very simple, and food very basic. I found nothing vegan except fries and rice.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I3nnuzIWowY/UOPn3cf_yDI/AAAAAAAAA-8/E40f5j3mZf0/s1600/DSCF9277.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I3nnuzIWowY/UOPn3cf_yDI/AAAAAAAAA-8/E40f5j3mZf0/s400/DSCF9277.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Mt Moiwa Ski area, close to Sapporo</td></tr></tbody></table>Note: I am writing about the Mt Moiwa near central Sapporo. There is a much larger Mt Moiwa Ski resort close to Niseko, which I didn't go to. Also note that this is a skier only area (no snowboarding).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5zm5-YfkbDI/UOPn4Z_JN8I/AAAAAAAAA_E/kvWFF_FrH0s/s1600/DSCF9285.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5zm5-YfkbDI/UOPn4Z_JN8I/AAAAAAAAA_E/kvWFF_FrH0s/s640/DSCF9285.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The views of Sapporo were amazing!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />To get there, take the subway to Makomanai Station, and then there is a shuttle bus (or a taxi) from there.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5zm5-YfkbDI/UOPn4Z_JN8I/AAAAAAAAA_E/kvWFF_FrH0s/s1600/DSCF9285.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7PZlleh_MPE/UOPn5skgd9I/AAAAAAAAA_M/BGOIQczbdh4/s1600/DSCF9296.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7PZlleh_MPE/UOPn5skgd9I/AAAAAAAAA_M/BGOIQczbdh4/s400/DSCF9296.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">my favourite run at Mt Moiwa</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pHAGcivq0RY/UOPn9WBDZ6I/AAAAAAAAA_k/4az0QuySJR4/s1600/DSCF9311.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><b>SAPPORO</b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pU8M52GwRFk/UOPzUczpLmI/AAAAAAAABCU/fBaNq_1SIoU/s1600/DSCF9166.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pU8M52GwRFk/UOPzUczpLmI/AAAAAAAABCU/fBaNq_1SIoU/s640/DSCF9166.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />If you're in Hokkaido, chances are you'll go to Sapporo. I found it to be a very pleasant, liveable city. Being a planned city, it has straight, wide streets, and a central park-like avenue (Oodori) running right through the centre. It reminded me very much of Christchurch (especially with the hills in the distance) and of Kaohsiung, which was probably planned and built by Japanese at around the same time.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-700txGo2Q5I/UOPz8EpTbqI/AAAAAAAABCc/4dWSeZICW5Q/s1600/DSCF9200.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-700txGo2Q5I/UOPz8EpTbqI/AAAAAAAABCc/4dWSeZICW5Q/s400/DSCF9200.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Oodori, central Sapporo</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="color: blue;">2014 Update: There are now several vegan and vegetarian options on Happycow. I have removed Jyoti and instead also recommend Lohas Rawfood and Itadakizen (details to come soon). I didn't get to try Heureuse Vie, Cafe Chienoki or Natural Food Holo.</span><br /><span style="color: blue;"><br /></span>&nbsp;I recommend three places to eat in Sapporo, all from&nbsp;<a href="http://www.happycow.net/asia/japan/sapporo/" target="_blank">Happycow</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews.php?id=13094" target="_blank">Aoi Sora Organic Cafe</a><br />Being Sapporo's only vegetarian cafe (it's actually vegan and organic) this should be top of the list. The meal was fresh and delicious (such a change from days of rice and French fries) and the friendly owner speaks good English. It's well worth the effort to get there.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g1o2IdtHduc/UOPsWGd8GfI/AAAAAAAABAQ/jQMsNTqCi7U/s1600/DSCF9153.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="371" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g1o2IdtHduc/UOPsWGd8GfI/AAAAAAAABAQ/jQMsNTqCi7U/s640/DSCF9153.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">a set lunch from Ao Sora Organic Cafe, Sapporo</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews.php?id=33663" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Iki Laboratory</span></a><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Iki Laboratory (it's r<span style="font-size: small;">eally a restaurant) labels many items on its menu 'vegan' and 'oriental vegetarian' (<span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="zh-TW"><span class="">全素 - no garlic or onion).&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">Portions&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">were small (<span style="font-size: small;">as normal in Japan) but for such excellent food, it was still good value.&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j2EJ3vSGHXc/UOPwEB4bssI/AAAAAAAABAs/dnyLf-mHH3E/s1600/DSCF9143.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j2EJ3vSGHXc/UOPwEB4bssI/AAAAAAAABAs/dnyLf-mHH3E/s400/DSCF9143.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">potato salad from Iki Laboratory</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fw_wuxiGXSI/UOPxFWnjlcI/AAAAAAAABBI/U3iWmsLBxa4/s1600/DSCF9147.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fw_wuxiGXSI/UOPxFWnjlcI/AAAAAAAABBI/U3iWmsLBxa4/s400/DSCF9147.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">I think these were made from gluten, but I can't remember what they were called.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ucFn9QczCEE/UOPxeu6eygI/AAAAAAAABBk/aX1tswDOBKg/s1600/DSCF9149.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ucFn9QczCEE/UOPxeu6eygI/AAAAAAAABBk/aX1tswDOBKg/s400/DSCF9149.JPG" width="332" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">parfait - Iki Laboratory</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews.php?id=30636" target="_blank">Jyoto</a></b><br /><span style="color: blue;">2014 edit</span><br />I previously recommended Jyoti for Indian food (written Dec 2012, removing it now Feb 2014). However on this visit the owner wasn't offering to make the vegetarian set vegan any more, so ordering dishes separately meant that my meal of dahl, lacha paratha (bread), samosas and "spicy potatoes" (essentially a potato curry, made with about one potato) came to about 2000 Yen. The dahl was also the only dish he suggested could be made vegan. And it was also very cold inside. So with these changes and the extra places added to Happycow, I no longer recommend Jyoti.<br />That said it is centrally located, and the staff clearly still understand veganism, so if you're craving an Indian meal it's still a possibility. <b>But I'd highly recommend giving your patronage to one of the half dozen or so vegan or vegetarian restaurants in Sapporo.</b>&nbsp;</div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-66782446355780671602013-10-04T19:43:00.000-07:002013-11-16T20:03:59.186-08:00Gala Yuzawa<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LWlze23u7eo/Uog-n_k_-tI/AAAAAAAACGE/LJvn7M2HcRc/s1600/DSCF6395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="388" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LWlze23u7eo/Uog-n_k_-tI/AAAAAAAACGE/LJvn7M2HcRc/s640/DSCF6395.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gala Yuzawa ski resort</td></tr></tbody></table><br />&nbsp;Gala Yuzawa is where Tokyoites go for a day on the ski slopes. The station is owned and run by the JR Company, and the shinkansen station, locker rooms and gondola entrance are all in the same building - Japanese efficiency at its best. Being owned by JR, they offer an excellent package including the train (about 1.5 hours each way) and a lift ticket for around 10 000 Yen (depending on the time of year). This is less than the train itself, so the lift pass is essentially thrown in free. Tickets can be bought from major JR stations.<br /><br />It tends to get quite crowded on weekends, especially with young snowboarders who seem to come more as a social outing, and they often sit down and talk on the pistes - beware. Serious skiers and boarders don't seem too fond of Gala Yuzawa, and for good reasons, however if you are just looking for an easy day on the ski slopes from Tokyo, this is the most convenient place to come.<br /><br />Food wise, it's the standard green salad, chips ("fried potatoes") and a bowl of white rice. I always bring snack food with me. <br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oTqK_Rr7jOg/UNbyonKkKqI/AAAAAAAAA30/bblZ1sgWMTg/s1600/DSCF7587.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="207" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oTqK_Rr7jOg/UNbyonKkKqI/AAAAAAAAA30/bblZ1sgWMTg/s400/DSCF7587.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">ramen and rice with soymeat from T's Tantan in Tokyo Station</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Since the shinkansen goes back to Tokyo station, on the way back is a perfect time to go to T's Tantan, the vegan ramen restaurant located inside the train station itself and not far from the Shinkansen entrance. It's located on Keiyo Street (an underground food "street") inside the gates of the station itself. Alternatively, if you're not carrying to much stuff, you could get off the shinkansen at Ueno Station and go to Vege Herb Saga, but call ahead first to check they are open.</div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-72905003682915533512013-10-04T19:27:00.000-07:002013-10-04T19:29:38.672-07:00Hakuba<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Hakuba" target="_blank">Hakuba</a> is a vegan oasis in the Japanese ski world, and also the site of the 1998 Winter Olympics. This is because there is a vegan restaurant right on the ski slopes and because the Hakuba Highland Hotel has chefs willing show off their culinary skills and cook up fresh, delicious and authentic Japanese food, which is probably the best Japanese food I've ever eaten.<br /><br /><div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-daa24f2Wmww/UJejzkyF-AI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/qs_NuI-EHKA/s1600/DSCF6405.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-daa24f2Wmww/UJejzkyF-AI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/qs_NuI-EHKA/s640/DSCF6405.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">It's not just the Olympic past which make Hakuba worth visiting.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dunbyLb5rk4/UJekdi6Pl3I/AAAAAAAAAy8/bVJqNvr7rSw/s1600/DSCF6431.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dunbyLb5rk4/UJekdi6Pl3I/AAAAAAAAAy8/bVJqNvr7rSw/s400/DSCF6431.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">And it's not just the food either - the views are spectacular.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FMELXGb5Ygg/USycP-oQkyI/AAAAAAAABTM/pb0c0iXOu_Q/s1600/DSCF9490.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FMELXGb5Ygg/USycP-oQkyI/AAAAAAAABTM/pb0c0iXOu_Q/s400/DSCF9490.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">But it can also get quite blizzard-like up the mountain!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Hakuba lies almost directly across the main island of Japan from Tokyo, about 50km from the West Coast. It's possible, but slow, to reach it by conventional train, with the best route being a shinkansen to Nagano (about an hour and a half), and then a bus to Hakuba (about an hour). It's a perfect location for a three-plus day excursion from Tokyo. It's generally significantly cheaper to go through a travel agent for a deal combining the shinkansen and the hotel (and possibly lift pass) than to book both independently, and it has the added benefit of the travel agent being able to explain vegan requirements.</div><div><br /><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fetPd7uLML8/UJekFxR6MNI/AAAAAAAAAys/n6sqRUyW6aA/s1600/DSCF6418.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fetPd7uLML8/UJekFxR6MNI/AAAAAAAAAys/n6sqRUyW6aA/s400/DSCF6418.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">I was fortunate to be in Hakuba after a massive snow drop in April 2012.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><br />It was probably the result of some good research by my travel agent (<a href="http://www.jackrabbit.jp/new/english/company-outline.htm" target="_blank">Jack Rabbit Travel in Motomachi, Yokohama</a>) and perhaps a little good luck too (given that it's not something likely to be listed in Japanese travel literature!) that she discovered that the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.japanican.com/hotels/ShisetsuDetail.aspx?st=5245001" target="_blank">Hakuba Highland Hotel</a>&nbsp;chefs are willing to cook delicious Japanese food for a visiting vegan. Their reportiore was, understandably, somewhat limited at first, but it grew over the course of my two visits, and included egg-less tempura and various hotpots (as in Taiwan, but with seaweed as a stock).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dMdbP5kH2fY/USoLX8dZdDI/AAAAAAAABR0/AiPmNEqh7xw/s1600/DSCF9479.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dMdbP5kH2fY/USoLX8dZdDI/AAAAAAAABR0/AiPmNEqh7xw/s640/DSCF9479.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">the morning view from my window at Hakuba Highland Hotel</td></tr></tbody></table><br />2013 Update: The food was even better - and quite spectacular - in my recent trip. I can't recommend Hakuba Highland Hotel enough, but it's vital to let them know in advance that you're vegan.</div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LIZVsz1lBLY/UJej9MdApRI/AAAAAAAAAyY/3Oh_aC2H69U/s1600/DSCF6399.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="363" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LIZVsz1lBLY/UJej9MdApRI/AAAAAAAAAyY/3Oh_aC2H69U/s400/DSCF6399.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">a typical oishii vegan dinner at the Hakuba Highland Hotel</td><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The food was beautifully prepared (of course) and I really enjoyed trying authentic Japanese cuisine cooked by a local chef. Portions were generously sized, and a couple of times they brought out so much for breakfast (which I had to cook myself over a burner) that I nearly missed the shuttle to the skifield.&nbsp;</div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L9UXGt85kIQ/UJekDMCSE6I/AAAAAAAAAyg/NsY18vuWjFg/s1600/DSCF6403.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L9UXGt85kIQ/UJekDMCSE6I/AAAAAAAAAyg/NsY18vuWjFg/s400/DSCF6403.JPG" width="351" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Cooking the range of foods over the flame was quite a novelty. Allow plenty of time for these breakfasts!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ix4b-TF5kfg/UJekOgqeYmI/AAAAAAAAAy0/mfMiUgrqPCk/s1600/DSCF6428.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="330" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ix4b-TF5kfg/UJekOgqeYmI/AAAAAAAAAy0/mfMiUgrqPCk/s400/DSCF6428.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">But all this breakfast requires is some serious eating.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RIGotLnB9ko/USn_e_5nh9I/AAAAAAAABPk/4XjnFIXnPw0/s1600/DSCF9522.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RIGotLnB9ko/USn_e_5nh9I/AAAAAAAABPk/4XjnFIXnPw0/s400/DSCF9522.JPG" width="357" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">2013 addition: It just keeps getting better and better!</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y-pPnVe4WQA/USoDEMo44gI/AAAAAAAABQw/mX6gen7aE_Y/s1600/DSCF9485.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="335" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y-pPnVe4WQA/USoDEMo44gI/AAAAAAAABQw/mX6gen7aE_Y/s400/DSCF9485.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The mochis (top right) were pre-cooked, but they also gave me a burner to heat them up.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2c58KQN0srY/USn_xvzmb2I/AAAAAAAABPs/Uw2dBXEQezo/s1600/DSCF9495.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2c58KQN0srY/USn_xvzmb2I/AAAAAAAABPs/Uw2dBXEQezo/s640/DSCF9495.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">2013: Daiya may not have made it into the Japanese culinary world yet, but I was so sure the cheesy topping on the potato really was that I apologised and said I couldn't eat cheese. The mildly-offended waiter explained that it was made of soybean powder. Their chef is amazing!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I'm not a big fan of onsens, but the Hakuba Highland Hotel also has a nice outdoor onsen, and it's a great way to soak tired limbs after skiing, with a mountain view and snow almost up to the edge of the (covered) bath itself. The hotel is warm, clean and friendly, and a short, free shuttle-ride from the train station (where the bus from Nagano Station stops) and the ski fields.<br /><br /></div><div>Nearby on the slopes of Happo One Resort is the incredible&nbsp;<a href="http://www.evergreen-hakuba.com/rootscafe/" target="_blank">Roots Cafe</a>. It is owned by Evergreen Outdoor Centre, which was started by Dave Enright eleven years ago, when he ran courses in avalanche safety and worked as a sole ski instructor. From there the business has grown into a hive of year-round outdoor education activities. I have been pleased with my ski lessons over the last year.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jBXZ4xdNmYQ/UR-EzruQvWI/AAAAAAAABN0/LrTn19d0y8Q/s1600/DSCF9476.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="398" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jBXZ4xdNmYQ/UR-EzruQvWI/AAAAAAAABN0/LrTn19d0y8Q/s640/DSCF9476.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Almost-vegan Roots Cafe, Happo One Ski Resort</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp;Five years ago Dave started Roots Cafe as a way of giving back to the community. Not only does it use locally produced vegetables and organic rice, but Dave grows some of the produce himself during the summer months. It also holds regular charity events, including one event which raised enough money to buy and deliver a new tractor for a tsunami-stricken village in Tohoku.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c_eZz_7QWOc/USyckOdAG6I/AAAAAAAABTU/mXLYBhIiJHE/s1600/DSCF9545.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c_eZz_7QWOc/USyckOdAG6I/AAAAAAAABTU/mXLYBhIiJHE/s640/DSCF9545.JPG" width="564" /></a></div><br /><br />Roots cafe has now grown into a busy cafe, and you'll be lucky to find a seat during the busy lunch period around midday. What I tend to do is come early (say between 10:00 and 11:00) and then again for a late afternoon snack around 3:00 - 4:00, to tide me over to dinner. Note that the main courses (eg the wraps) are only available until 2:30, but there are plenty of snacks available afterwards. They also sell baked goods which are ideal for quick snacks on the ski lifts.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--FnP4qidsRs/USoN_5mhWKI/AAAAAAAABSk/71UMWIPpFkM/s1600/DSCF9543.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--FnP4qidsRs/USoN_5mhWKI/AAAAAAAABSk/71UMWIPpFkM/s320/DSCF9543.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Snack time. Wrapped bars and biscuits are fresh from the oven, and make great snacks for the ski lifts. The tea was good too.</td></tr></tbody></table></div></div><div>Unfortunately on my first visit, I simply didn't know about them, and found out by chance from a vegetarian ski instructor on my last day, and on my second visit (in April, partly to try this cafe), it had closed for the season the day before I arrived. I finally made it here in February 2013, and wasn't disappointed. It just makes the whole ski experience so much nicer when hot vegan food is so easily available.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1C3q-V3Qzos/USoAoALsQoI/AAAAAAAABP8/Z0wIHd1nKZM/s1600/DSCF9511.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="251" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1C3q-V3Qzos/USoAoALsQoI/AAAAAAAABP8/Z0wIHd1nKZM/s640/DSCF9511.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">How many ski slopes are there in the world where one can find hummus and pita platters right on the slopes?</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The food is simple, healthy and delicious, and very suited to a hungry, non-vegan ski-boot-clad clientele, both Japanese and foreign. They use organic rice, and locally grown vegetables.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B7UwTJ1E_7U/UR-FPsaO3NI/AAAAAAAABN8/UCAf3NL3gNM/s1600/DSCF9487.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="347" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B7UwTJ1E_7U/UR-FPsaO3NI/AAAAAAAABN8/UCAf3NL3gNM/s400/DSCF9487.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Lunches like this Mexican Wrap are available until 2:30.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JAQfndtwKYA/USoBsYv_4rI/AAAAAAAABQI/STPlUZQTSuE/s1600/DSCF9477.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JAQfndtwKYA/USoBsYv_4rI/AAAAAAAABQI/STPlUZQTSuE/s400/DSCF9477.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">But the Soup of the Day (here Minestrone) and snacks like these Soy Karage balls are available all day.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Cows milk is available for drinks upon request, and their burger buns contain milk powder (because they are bought from outside) but otherwise everything is vegan. Some sauces contain honey, so if you don't eat honey, then ask which products contain it (and please read&nbsp;<a href="http://www.satyamag.com/sept05/greger.html" target="_blank">this article</a>).<br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y-pPnVe4WQA/USoDEMo44gI/AAAAAAAABQw/mX6gen7aE_Y/s1600/DSCF9485.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tlCiF_ZS50w/USoNWZA1hkI/AAAAAAAABSA/6r-PrQ-a_nE/s1600/DSCF9541.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tlCiF_ZS50w/USoNWZA1hkI/AAAAAAAABSA/6r-PrQ-a_nE/s400/DSCF9541.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The range of wraps (including falafel) were my favourite, but they also had this Chinese dish and an Indian-style curry.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div>Roots Cafe (and Evergreen Outdoor Centre) is on the slopes of Kokusai. The Hakuba Highland Hotel shuttle bus stops at the Gondola, from which it's possible to get to Kokusai by skiing either of the former Olympic routes (black runs). It should also be possible on green runs, but it's a bit more complicated (check a piste map). Alternatively, it's only a five to ten minute walk around the base of the mountain.<br /><br />I recommend eating twice at Roots Cafe - preferably first before 11AM, and the next before the 2:30 finish of main dishes (snacks are available until 4:30) - and at the Hakuba Highland Hotel, but should you find yourself in Hakuba in need of food in the evening, the only Indian (and Nepalese) restaurant,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hakuba-joho.net/hindi/" target="_blank">Hindi Momo</a>, has two vegan main dishes, Dahl and a Spinach-tomato curry, and the owner was happy to explain what was vegan. I found the dahl to be the best of the two.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xLIJ2xV6SIE/UTwyvvsK7RI/AAAAAAAABUs/tQtDCDQ5Ndc/s1600/DSCF9678.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xLIJ2xV6SIE/UTwyvvsK7RI/AAAAAAAABUs/tQtDCDQ5Ndc/s400/DSCF9678.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Dahl and rice from Hindi Momo, Hakuba</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">August 2013 Edit: On my original post (on my Vegan Taiwan blog) I noted that the nearby Goryu resort has a Subway restaurant, but have since learned that the breads (like virtually all of the sauces) all contain dairy products, so I don't recommend going anywhere other than Hakuba.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Also in Nagano (a train, bus and walk from Nagano Station) are the famous snow-monkeys (Japanese macaques which bathe in "onsens" during winter. I haven't (yet) been, and am undecided about whether or not to. So far as I can tell, including from accounts by people who have visited, there are no issues of abuse, and the monkeys are not in any form of&nbsp;dependence&nbsp;or captivity. Feeding them, for example, is prohibited so as to prevent them becoming dependent on humans. One could argue that humans are intruding on the monkeys habitat, with swarms of tourists pouring through daily, while however it is a perfect opportunity for the public to see and experience the sentience of non-human animals in their natural habitat. If you do go, please let me know what you think.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004cd05829c8527555ff&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;source=embed&amp;ll=36.700081,137.850094&amp;spn=0.048172,0.072956&amp;z=13&amp;output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br /></div><small>View&nbsp;<a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004cd05829c8527555ff&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;source=embed&amp;ll=36.700081,137.850094&amp;spn=0.048172,0.072956&amp;z=13" style="color: blue;">Hakuba Vegan Spots</a>&nbsp;in a larger map</small><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-59461775832173301192013-08-15T20:15:00.000-07:002017-09-24T00:22:34.543-07:00Upcoming Events<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;">As I no longer live in Japan I am unable to advise of upcomming events. However, I have compiled a <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/2013/07/vegn-events-in-tokyo.html" target="_blank">list of annual or regular events here</a>.&nbsp;</span> </div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Tokyo Veg Festa</h2><br />Usually held in October, this is Tokyo's top vegan event of the year, and should not be missed. Bring an empty stomach and a bag to stock up on groceries. Despite the name, all food and groceries are vegan. There are usually around 100 stalls selling foods, eco-products or just promoting worthy causes.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cyRe83940rw/Ugws1j8XI0I/AAAAAAAABe0/FVgGziJkHl4/s1600/DSCF7653.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cyRe83940rw/Ugws1j8XI0I/AAAAAAAABe0/FVgGziJkHl4/s640/DSCF7653.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Tokyo Vegfood Festa (more on my&nbsp;<a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegn-events-in-tokyo.html?utm_source=BP_recent" target="_blank">blog post here</a>)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Essentials</h3>Yoyogi Park (beside NHK Hall)Admission: free<br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Vegan Meetups</h2>Details for monthly Vegan Meetups at the Pink Cow (and increasingly other ones) can be found at the <a href="http://www.meetup.com/vegan-389/" target="_blank">meetup site here</a>.<br /><br /><br /></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-91394531971579201792013-08-13T23:34:00.002-07:002014-08-17T00:52:10.135-07:00Outing, Dinner & Groceries: Alishan Cafe<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span style="color: #073763;">Updated August 2014</span></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span style="color: #073763;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lupcoI65QWc/Uf99N2kUe4I/AAAAAAAABdI/G9P8SZCo3AM/s1600/Alishan+Shop.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lupcoI65QWc/Uf99N2kUe4I/AAAAAAAABdI/G9P8SZCo3AM/s400/Alishan+Shop.JPG" height="252" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alishan Organics Cafe and Shop</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I don't know why it took me two years to visit <a href="http://www.alishan-organics.com/Alishan2010_organics/about/about-alishan/" target="_blank">Alishan Cafe</a> in Saitama, north of Tokyo, but now that I've been once it will become as regular a hangout as anywhere so far from Yokohama could. If you live or stay around Tokyo, a trip to Alishan is three-fold: an escape from the city (while only an hour away), a delicious vegan meal and a chance to stock up on organic whole foods. But even if you're&nbsp;just visiting Japan for a short time it's well worth the trip to visit Alishan.<br /><br />Alishan Organics is owned by Jack, American, and Faye, who is (surprise) from&nbsp;Alishan. Alishan is a mountain in central Taiwan, and is deservedly one of the country's top tourist destinations (for locals and foreign tourists, including ever-increasing numbers of Chinese).<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1XzR9MtBQ_E/Ul4eUjeM1kI/AAAAAAAACA0/w2w3LdPRqGw/s1600/Alishan+lake+edited.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1XzR9MtBQ_E/Ul4eUjeM1kI/AAAAAAAACA0/w2w3LdPRqGw/s640/Alishan+lake+edited.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alishan, Taiwan (2007 photo)</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Alishan is especially popular for its sublime sunrise. Its fame began a century ago, back when Taiwan was part of Japan, when its forests supplied timber for the Japanese empire. The Torii (gate) of Meiji Shrine (close to Yoyogi Park in Shibuya) is from Alishan, as was the original which was destroyed during the WW2 bombings. The Japanese-built narrow-gauge railway up the mountain (to transport logs), complete with the original steam train, used to be used to take tourists up the mountain, passing through stunning scenery and a range of climactic zones, and it was especially popular during the sakura (cherry blossom) season, for which Alishan is famous in Taiwan. Unfortunately the train was discontinued a few years ago, apparently due to typhoon damage.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l9nztEHpv5s/Uf9-L0_FbkI/AAAAAAAABdY/Qr5VmZuH2QA/s1600/Koma+River.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l9nztEHpv5s/Uf9-L0_FbkI/AAAAAAAABdY/Qr5VmZuH2QA/s640/Koma+River.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Koma River. Alishan Organics is just to the left of where this photo was taken &nbsp;from.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Alishan Organics started out in the early 1980s, when Jack and Faye, who at the time were exporting Japanese antiques and folkcraft, began importing small amounts healthy and nutritious food (such as whole wheat flour and peanut butter!) for their family and friends. From there they grew into the major wholesaler of organic and whole foods in Japan they are today. Their products can be found in organic and natural food shops nationwide (including <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-groceries-in-tokyo.html" target="_blank">Natural Mart and National Azabu in Hiroo</a>) and they have been running the cafe and shop at its current site since 2001, when they built their 'big red barn'. &nbsp;It's worth bringing a bag to stock up at the store, but they also do direct mail order through their <a href="http://www.alishan-organics.com/Alishan2010_organics/tengu-natural-foods/tengu-products/" target="_blank">Tengu Natural Foods</a> site if you don't want to lug your next month's lentils or Amy's soup tins back on the subway.<br /><br />Despite being located on a main road, Alishan Cafe has an outdoor seating area which backs directly onto the beautiful Koma river, so it feels quite secluded from the outside world, and is a beautiful spot to eat, drink and chill out.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h8dKUVXze2Q/Uf9_BvkeHEI/AAAAAAAABdk/K85NeBwH1Cs/s1600/Alishan+Table+View.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h8dKUVXze2Q/Uf9_BvkeHEI/AAAAAAAABdk/K85NeBwH1Cs/s400/Alishan+Table+View.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">the view from my table at Alishan Cafe</td></tr></tbody></table><br />During the evenings the outside area is often lit by candlelight, and on my visit there was a sitar and tabla ensemble entertaining the crowd of Japanese and foreign visitors. The seating area was fairly full, so it wouldn't hurt to make a reservation for the evening meal during weekends (phone<span style="font-family: inherit;">&nbsp;<span style="background-color: white;">042-982-4823)</span></span>.<br /><div><br /></div>The five minute walk to Alishan Organics from Koma Station passes through market gardens and along the Koma river.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hIggo6omDXY/Uf97ODfHPXI/AAAAAAAABcw/3G0P9ROPg7I/s1600/Alishan_walk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hIggo6omDXY/Uf97ODfHPXI/AAAAAAAABcw/3G0P9ROPg7I/s640/Alishan_walk.jpg" height="235" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Alishan Organics is a five minute walk from Koma Station, through these gardens and past a swimming area of the Koma River.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />It's well worth having a walk along the river,&nbsp;which is popular for swimming (and unfortunately fishing).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FzpjJWnDClc/Uf975QT9s2I/AAAAAAAABc4/78CLLsTDRdk/s1600/Koma+river+walkway+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FzpjJWnDClc/Uf975QT9s2I/AAAAAAAABc4/78CLLsTDRdk/s400/Koma+river+walkway+1.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Take a stroll down the Koma River.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The area downstream from the cafe is also a popular picnic and camping spot (Kinchakuda), and it's great to be able to camp and not have to worry about cooking meals, especially if you need to carry your camping equipment from the train (as I did).<br /><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dx9OqQQIaTk/Uf98ll8vbBI/AAAAAAAABdA/pgSryW4KnH4/s1600/Koma+River+Camping+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dx9OqQQIaTk/Uf98ll8vbBI/AAAAAAAABdA/pgSryW4KnH4/s400/Koma+River+Camping+1.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kinchakuda picnic and camping area</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="text-align: left;">If camping, it's best to camp in the middle of the loop (as far as possible from the entrance) as it's quieter and the gravel is much finer. That said, it is still gravel (as of August 2014, but this changes as the river does) so be sure to have a comfortable mattress. &nbsp;I also don't recommend camping during the hottest part of the year (August) as I did, but during the spring and autumn this would be a charming spot. And, like skiing or hiking at Hakuba, it's so great to be able to enjoy the outdoors of Japan without having to live on tofu and white rice.</span><br /><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ppt7bVC5mLo/U_BdtfkA5KI/AAAAAAAACnI/dgVu3HiAweU/s1600/DSCF5566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ppt7bVC5mLo/U_BdtfkA5KI/AAAAAAAACnI/dgVu3HiAweU/s1600/DSCF5566.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Camping in the middle of the loop, Kinchakuda picnic / camping area</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span>It's not just the setting, camping opportunity and grocery store that makes Alishan Organics worth the hour's trip from Tokyo: the food will bring any hungry vegan back again. Vegan options are listed on separate pages (some contain honey, so if you don't eat honey then ask), and include a range of international dishes, including Amy's (US brand) pizzas and burgers, and delicious vegan baking.<br /><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Lj9d2LO6Yg/Uf-BuoGOxZI/AAAAAAAABd0/KUkqMYYt9q8/s1600/ALishan+Thai+Curry.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Lj9d2LO6Yg/Uf-BuoGOxZI/AAAAAAAABd0/KUkqMYYt9q8/s640/ALishan+Thai+Curry.JPG" height="488" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thai curry from Alishan Cafe</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span>The fig and pear pie was the best pie I've eaten in longer than I can remember, and the coconut curry the most authentic Thai meal I've had in Japan, and the lemongrass aroma reached me before the curry itself. (T's Tantan's Masaman curry is also very good.)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YQ97nH-bCXs/Uf-C3DVS38I/AAAAAAAABeA/eFmrl2Dk2xM/s1600/Alishan+dessert.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YQ97nH-bCXs/Uf-C3DVS38I/AAAAAAAABeA/eFmrl2Dk2xM/s640/Alishan+dessert.JPG" height="497" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I don't remember when I last ate a dessert this good. The Pink Cow vegan meetup desserts are the next best in Tokyo.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />They also serve Taiwanese tea, from (surprise) Alishan, which (besides sunrises and sakura) is very famous for its tea, as, like Li Shan (which boasts the highest tea plantations in the world) its altitude and weather patterns make it one of the world's best places to grow tea.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lrs78tRQIUc/Uf-JolWbINI/AAAAAAAABeQ/wSDlO-Qh8VM/s1600/Alishan+Organics+Tea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lrs78tRQIUc/Uf-JolWbINI/AAAAAAAABeQ/wSDlO-Qh8VM/s640/Alishan+Organics+Tea.jpg" height="296" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">loose leaf Alishan tea</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />During the busy summer period the menu is somewhat reduced (due to the large numbers of customers) but still a delicious meal, and vegan options are always available.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mq1ZVnAwILI/U_BedwoufAI/AAAAAAAACnQ/mn_bXE0C2Fw/s1600/DSCF0671.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Mq1ZVnAwILI/U_BedwoufAI/AAAAAAAACnQ/mn_bXE0C2Fw/s1600/DSCF0671.JPG" height="232" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh, delicious and 'summery' , August 2014&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Living in Yokohama, I'm fortunate that since the Tokyo Toyoko Line (for Yokohama) was joined up with the Fukutoshin (subway) Line, I can make it to the cafe with just one transfer (though two is often faster). It's about an hour from Ikebukuro (Northern Tokyo) on the Seibu Line. The Fukutoshin Subway Line continues (as the Seibu Yurakucho and then Ikebukuro Lines) to Hanno Station, from which it's a short hop on the Seibu Chichibu Line to Koma Station. For the best route there I recommend <a href="http://www.hyperdia.com/en/" target="_blank">Hyperdia</a>&nbsp;(from: anywhere, to:Koma; they also have a very useful smartphone app) or just go to Ikebukuro Station (or wherever you are) and ask the staff for the best route to Koma Station in Saitama.<br /><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&amp;source=s_d&amp;saddr=koma+station+saitama&amp;daddr=alishan+organic+cafe&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=FRiDIwId451NCCl79tjXvygZYDGs7rZSZP177Q%3BFW-SIwIdm65NCCGIRSH9MNLOSylrwvVO6ygZYDGIRSH9MNLOSw&amp;aq=&amp;dirflg=w&amp;doflg=ptm&amp;mra=ls&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.884043,139.306748&amp;spn=0.006085,0.00912&amp;z=16&amp;output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br /></div><small><a href="https://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&amp;source=embed&amp;saddr=koma+station+saitama&amp;daddr=alishan+organic+cafe&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=FRiDIwId451NCCl79tjXvygZYDGs7rZSZP177Q%3BFW-SIwIdm65NCCGIRSH9MNLOSylrwvVO6ygZYDGIRSH9MNLOSw&amp;aq=&amp;dirflg=w&amp;doflg=ptm&amp;mra=ls&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.884043,139.306748&amp;spn=0.006085,0.00912&amp;z=16" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">View Larger Map</a></small> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.alishan-organics.com/Alishan2010_organics/alishan-cafe/cafe-info/" target="_blank"><b>Opening Hours:</b></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: left;">Monday: 11:30 - 18:00 (final orders for food 15:30)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: left;">Monday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday: 11:30 - 18:00</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: left;">Saturday: 11:30 - 21:00</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: left;">Tuesday &amp; Wednesday: closed</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Po3YhTGK7hA/Uf92i0K2a6I/AAAAAAAABcg/PPQm-TCEbQw/s1600/Alishan+Logo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Po3YhTGK7hA/Uf92i0K2a6I/AAAAAAAABcg/PPQm-TCEbQw/s400/Alishan+Logo.JPG" height="226" width="400" /></a></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-58173101165491032382013-08-06T22:02:00.000-07:002013-10-04T19:40:46.168-07:00Skiing in Japan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><b>HAKUBA</b><br />The main exception to this rule, and therefore the top recommendation for ski resorts in Japan goes to&nbsp;<a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Hakuba" target="_blank">Hakuba</a>,&nbsp;a vegan oasis in the Japanese ski world, and also the site of the 1998 Winter Olympics. This is because there is a vegan restaurant right on the ski slopes and because the Hakuba Highland Hotel has chefs willing show off their culinary skills and cook up fresh, delicious and authentic Japanese food, which is probably the best Japanese food I've ever eaten.<br /><br /><div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-daa24f2Wmww/UJejzkyF-AI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/qs_NuI-EHKA/s1600/DSCF6405.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-daa24f2Wmww/UJejzkyF-AI/AAAAAAAAAyQ/qs_NuI-EHKA/s640/DSCF6405.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">It's not just the Olympic past which make Hakuba worth visiting.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dunbyLb5rk4/UJekdi6Pl3I/AAAAAAAAAy8/bVJqNvr7rSw/s1600/DSCF6431.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dunbyLb5rk4/UJekdi6Pl3I/AAAAAAAAAy8/bVJqNvr7rSw/s400/DSCF6431.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">And it's not just the food either - the views are spectacular.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FMELXGb5Ygg/USycP-oQkyI/AAAAAAAABTM/pb0c0iXOu_Q/s1600/DSCF9490.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FMELXGb5Ygg/USycP-oQkyI/AAAAAAAABTM/pb0c0iXOu_Q/s400/DSCF9490.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">But it can also get quite blizzard-like up the mountain!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Hakuba lies almost directly across the main island of Japan from Tokyo, about 50km from the West Coast. It's possible, but slow, to reach it by conventional train, with the best route being a shinkansen to Nagano (about an hour and a half), and then a bus to Hakuba (about an hour). It's a perfect location for a three-plus day excursion from Tokyo. It's generally significantly cheaper to go through a travel agent for a deal combining the shinkansen and the hotel (and possibly lift pass) than to book both independently, and it has the added benefit of the travel agent being able to explain vegan requirements.</div><div><br /><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fetPd7uLML8/UJekFxR6MNI/AAAAAAAAAys/n6sqRUyW6aA/s1600/DSCF6418.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fetPd7uLML8/UJekFxR6MNI/AAAAAAAAAys/n6sqRUyW6aA/s400/DSCF6418.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">I was fortunate to be in Hakuba after a massive snow drop in April 2012.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><br />It was probably the result of some good research by my travel agent (<a href="http://www.jackrabbit.jp/new/english/company-outline.htm" target="_blank">Jack Rabbit Travel in Motomachi, Yokohama</a>) and perhaps a little good luck too (given that it's not something likely to be listed in Japanese travel literature!) that she discovered that the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.japanican.com/hotels/ShisetsuDetail.aspx?st=5245001" target="_blank">Hakuba Highland Hotel</a>&nbsp;chefs are willing to cook delicious Japanese food for a visiting vegan. Their reportiore was, understandably, somewhat limited at first, but it grew over the course of my two visits, and included egg-less tempura and various hotpots (as in Taiwan, but with seaweed as a stock).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dMdbP5kH2fY/USoLX8dZdDI/AAAAAAAABR0/AiPmNEqh7xw/s1600/DSCF9479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dMdbP5kH2fY/USoLX8dZdDI/AAAAAAAABR0/AiPmNEqh7xw/s640/DSCF9479.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">the morning view from my window at Hakuba Highland Hotel</td></tr></tbody></table><br />2013 Update: The food was even better - and quite spectacular - in my recent trip. I can't recommend Hakuba Highland Hotel enough, but it's vital to let them know in advance that you're vegan.</div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LIZVsz1lBLY/UJej9MdApRI/AAAAAAAAAyY/3Oh_aC2H69U/s1600/DSCF6399.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="363" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LIZVsz1lBLY/UJej9MdApRI/AAAAAAAAAyY/3Oh_aC2H69U/s400/DSCF6399.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">a typical oishii vegan dinner at the Hakuba Highland Hotel</td><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />The food was beautifully prepared (of course) and I really enjoyed trying authentic Japanese cuisine cooked by a local chef. Portions were generously sized, and a couple of times they brought out so much for breakfast (which I had to cook myself over a burner) that I nearly missed the shuttle to the skifield.&nbsp;</div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L9UXGt85kIQ/UJekDMCSE6I/AAAAAAAAAyg/NsY18vuWjFg/s1600/DSCF6403.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L9UXGt85kIQ/UJekDMCSE6I/AAAAAAAAAyg/NsY18vuWjFg/s400/DSCF6403.JPG" width="351" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Cooking the range of foods over the flame was quite a novelty. Allow plenty of time for these breakfasts!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ix4b-TF5kfg/UJekOgqeYmI/AAAAAAAAAy0/mfMiUgrqPCk/s1600/DSCF6428.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="330" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ix4b-TF5kfg/UJekOgqeYmI/AAAAAAAAAy0/mfMiUgrqPCk/s400/DSCF6428.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">But all this breakfast requires is some serious eating.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RIGotLnB9ko/USn_e_5nh9I/AAAAAAAABPk/4XjnFIXnPw0/s1600/DSCF9522.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RIGotLnB9ko/USn_e_5nh9I/AAAAAAAABPk/4XjnFIXnPw0/s400/DSCF9522.JPG" width="357" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">2013 addition: It just keeps getting better and better!</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y-pPnVe4WQA/USoDEMo44gI/AAAAAAAABQw/mX6gen7aE_Y/s1600/DSCF9485.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="335" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y-pPnVe4WQA/USoDEMo44gI/AAAAAAAABQw/mX6gen7aE_Y/s400/DSCF9485.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The mochis (top right) were pre-cooked, but they also gave me a burner to heat them up.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div></div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2c58KQN0srY/USn_xvzmb2I/AAAAAAAABPs/Uw2dBXEQezo/s1600/DSCF9495.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2c58KQN0srY/USn_xvzmb2I/AAAAAAAABPs/Uw2dBXEQezo/s640/DSCF9495.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">2013: Daiya may not have made it into the Japanese culinary world yet, but I was so sure the cheesy topping on the potato really was that I apologised and said I couldn't eat cheese. The mildly-offended waiter explained that it was made of soybean powder. Their chef is amazing!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I'm not a big fan of onsens, but the Hakuba Highland Hotel also has a nice outdoor onsen, and it's a great way to soak tired limbs after skiing, with a mountain view and snow almost up to the edge of the (covered) bath itself. The hotel is warm, clean and friendly, and a short, free shuttle-ride from the train station (where the bus from Nagano Station stops) and the ski fields.<br /><br /></div><div>Nearby on the slopes of Happo One Resort is the incredible&nbsp;<a href="http://www.evergreen-hakuba.com/rootscafe/" target="_blank">Roots Cafe</a>. It is owned by Evergreen Outdoor Centre, which was started by Dave Enright eleven years ago, when he ran courses in avalanche safety and worked as a sole ski instructor. From there the business has grown into a hive of year-round outdoor education activities. I have been pleased with my ski lessons over the last year.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jBXZ4xdNmYQ/UR-EzruQvWI/AAAAAAAABN0/LrTn19d0y8Q/s1600/DSCF9476.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="398" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jBXZ4xdNmYQ/UR-EzruQvWI/AAAAAAAABN0/LrTn19d0y8Q/s640/DSCF9476.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Almost-vegan Roots Cafe, Happo One Ski Resort</td></tr></tbody></table>&nbsp;Five years ago Dave started Roots Cafe as a way of giving back to the community. Not only does it use locally produced vegetables and organic rice, but Dave grows some of the produce himself during the summer months. It also holds regular charity events, including one event which raised enough money to buy and deliver a new tractor for a tsunami-stricken village in Tohoku.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c_eZz_7QWOc/USyckOdAG6I/AAAAAAAABTU/mXLYBhIiJHE/s1600/DSCF9545.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-c_eZz_7QWOc/USyckOdAG6I/AAAAAAAABTU/mXLYBhIiJHE/s640/DSCF9545.JPG" width="564" /></a></div><br /><br />Roots cafe has now grown into a busy cafe, and you'll be lucky to find a seat during the busy lunch period around midday. What I tend to do is come early (say between 10:00 and 11:00) and then again for a late afternoon snack around 3:00 - 4:00, to tide me over to dinner. Note that the main courses (eg the wraps) are only available until 2:30, but there are plenty of snacks available afterwards. They also sell baked goods which are ideal for quick snacks on the ski lifts.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--FnP4qidsRs/USoN_5mhWKI/AAAAAAAABSk/71UMWIPpFkM/s1600/DSCF9543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--FnP4qidsRs/USoN_5mhWKI/AAAAAAAABSk/71UMWIPpFkM/s320/DSCF9543.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Snack time. Wrapped bars and biscuits are fresh from the oven, and make great snacks for the ski lifts. The tea was good too.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div></div></div><div>Unfortunately on my first visit, I simply didn't know about them, and found out by chance from a vegetarian ski instructor on my last day, and on my second visit (in April, partly to try this cafe), it had closed for the season the day before I arrived. I finally made it here in February 2013, and wasn't disappointed. It just makes the whole ski experience so much nicer when hot vegan food is so easily available.<br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1C3q-V3Qzos/USoAoALsQoI/AAAAAAAABP8/Z0wIHd1nKZM/s1600/DSCF9511.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="251" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1C3q-V3Qzos/USoAoALsQoI/AAAAAAAABP8/Z0wIHd1nKZM/s640/DSCF9511.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">How many ski slopes are there in the world where one can find hummus and pita platters right on the slopes?</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The food is simple, healthy and delicious, and very suited to a hungry, non-vegan ski-boot-clad clientele, both Japanese and foreign. They use organic rice, and locally grown vegetables.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B7UwTJ1E_7U/UR-FPsaO3NI/AAAAAAAABN8/UCAf3NL3gNM/s1600/DSCF9487.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="347" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B7UwTJ1E_7U/UR-FPsaO3NI/AAAAAAAABN8/UCAf3NL3gNM/s400/DSCF9487.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Lunches like this Mexican Wrap are available until 2:30.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JAQfndtwKYA/USoBsYv_4rI/AAAAAAAABQI/STPlUZQTSuE/s1600/DSCF9477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JAQfndtwKYA/USoBsYv_4rI/AAAAAAAABQI/STPlUZQTSuE/s400/DSCF9477.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">But the Soup of the Day (here Minestrone) and snacks like these Soy Karage balls are available all day.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Cows milk is available for drinks upon request, and their burger buns contain milk powder (because they are bought from outside) but otherwise everything is vegan. Some sauces contain honey, so if you don't eat honey, then ask which products contain it (and please read&nbsp;<a href="http://www.satyamag.com/sept05/greger.html" target="_blank">this article</a>).<br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y-pPnVe4WQA/USoDEMo44gI/AAAAAAAABQw/mX6gen7aE_Y/s1600/DSCF9485.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tlCiF_ZS50w/USoNWZA1hkI/AAAAAAAABSA/6r-PrQ-a_nE/s1600/DSCF9541.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tlCiF_ZS50w/USoNWZA1hkI/AAAAAAAABSA/6r-PrQ-a_nE/s400/DSCF9541.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The range of wraps (including falafel) were my favourite, but they also had this Chinese dish and an Indian-style curry.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div>Roots Cafe (and Evergreen Outdoor Centre) is on the slopes of Kokusai. The Hakuba Highland Hotel shuttle bus stops at the Gondola, from which it's possible to get to Kokusai by skiing either of the former Olympic routes (black runs). It should also be possible on green runs, but it's a bit more complicated (check a piste map). Alternatively, it's only a five to ten minute walk around the base of the mountain.<br /><br />I recommend eating twice at Roots Cafe - preferably first before 11AM, and the next before the 2:30 finish of main dishes (snacks are available until 4:30) - and at the Hakuba Highland Hotel, but should you find yourself in Hakuba in need of food in the evening, the only Indian (and Nepalese) restaurant,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hakuba-joho.net/hindi/" target="_blank">Hindi Momo</a>, has two vegan main dishes, Dahl and a Spinach-tomato curry, and the owner was happy to explain what was vegan. I found the dahl to be the best of the two.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xLIJ2xV6SIE/UTwyvvsK7RI/AAAAAAAABUs/tQtDCDQ5Ndc/s1600/DSCF9678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xLIJ2xV6SIE/UTwyvvsK7RI/AAAAAAAABUs/tQtDCDQ5Ndc/s400/DSCF9678.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Dahl and rice from Hindi Momo, Hakuba</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">August 2013 Edit: On my original post (on my Vegan Taiwan blog) I noted that the nearby Goryu resort has a Subway restaurant, but have since learned that the breads (like virtually all of the sauces) all contain dairy products, so I don't recommend going anywhere other than Hakuba.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Also in Nagano (a train, bus and walk from Nagano Station) are the famous snow-monkeys (Japanese macaques which bathe in "onsens" during winter. I haven't (yet) been, and am undecided about whether or not to. So far as I can tell, including from accounts by people who have visited, there are no issues of abuse, and the monkeys are not in any form of&nbsp;dependence&nbsp;or captivity. Feeding them, for example, is prohibited so as to prevent them becoming dependent on humans. One could argue that humans are intruding on the monkeys habitat, with swarms of tourists pouring through daily, while however it is a perfect opportunity for the public to see and experience the sentience of non-human animals in their natural habitat. If you do go, please let me know what you think.</div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004cd05829c8527555ff&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;source=embed&amp;ll=36.700081,137.850094&amp;spn=0.048172,0.072956&amp;z=13&amp;output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br /></div><small>View&nbsp;<a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004cd05829c8527555ff&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;source=embed&amp;ll=36.700081,137.850094&amp;spn=0.048172,0.072956&amp;z=13" style="color: blue;">Hakuba Vegan Spots</a>&nbsp;in a larger map</small><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div></div><b>GALA YUZAWA</b><br />Gala Yuzawa is where Tokyoites go for a day on the ski slopes. The station is owned and run by the JR Company, and the shinkansen station, locker rooms and gondola entrance are all in the same building - Japanese efficiency at its best. Being owned by JR, they offer an excellent package including the train (about 1.5 hours each way) and a lift ticket for around 10 000 Yen (depending on the time of year). This is less than the train itself, so the lift pass is essentially thrown in free. Tickets can be bought from major JR stations.<br /><br />It tends to get quite crowded on weekends, especially with young snowboarders who seem to come more as a social outing, and they often sit down and talk on the pistes - beware. However, for a day on the ski slopes from Tokyo, this is the place to come.<br /><br />Food wise, it's the standard green salad, chips ("fried potatoes") and a bowl of white rice. I always bring snack food with me.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oTqK_Rr7jOg/UNbyonKkKqI/AAAAAAAAA30/bblZ1sgWMTg/s1600/DSCF7587.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="207" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oTqK_Rr7jOg/UNbyonKkKqI/AAAAAAAAA30/bblZ1sgWMTg/s400/DSCF7587.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">ramen and rice with soymeat from T's Tantan in Tokyo Station</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Since the shinkansen goes back to Tokyo station, on the way back is a perfect time to go to T's Tantan, the vegan ramen restaurant located inside the train station itself and not far from the Shinkansen entrance. It's located on Keiyo Street (an underground food "street") inside the gates of the station itself.<br /><br /><b>HOKKAIDO</b><br />Niseko is a Meka for snow sports, boasting what some would call the best powder snow in the world (though Hakuba is also excellent).<b>&nbsp;</b>I visited three ski fields: Niseko, Kokusai and Mt Moiwa. Whereever you go, if you take just one piece of advice from this blog,&nbsp;<i>bring plenty of snack food with you</i>. Due to my late order and the Xmas backlog, my veganessentials order didn't arrive before I left, and I could really have done with all those snack bars I'd ordered, especially while travelling and on the slopes!<br /><br /><b>Getting There</b><br />The best way to get to Hokkaido for the environment is of course the train, and it's an interesting day's journey (or more if you stop off along the way) to take the shinkansen to Aomori and then an interesting trip through the world's longest undersea tunnel to Hokkaido, the Seikan Tunnel. (The Channel Tunnel has a longer undersea portion, however the the Seikan Tunnel is the longest and also the deepest rail tunnel). If you have a Japan Rail Pass (almost an essential for tourists who plan on leaving the Greater Tokyo are) it's all covered by the JR Pass, unless you want an expensive sleeper berth.<br /><br />If you do fly, New Chitose Airport is about an hour and a half's flight from Tokyo, and flights leave from both Haneda and Narita airports. There is a Starbucks on the third floor. (Starbucks is usually the only place one can find soymilk, with an exception being Niseko, thanks to all the Australians). Also, the conveyor-belt sushi restaurant nearby has a few vegan options, including pickled plum, cucumber and gourd; these three can be found in sushi restaurants all over Japan, and are usually vegan. There are small dipping bowls for soy sauce under the conveyor belt for sushi, and ginger is in a box on the table. The powdered green tea is free (help yourself). Just don't be tempted by the deep fried squid legs or the&nbsp; crab intestine sushi, quite a bargain at only 200 and 300 Yen respectively.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xYEKgBfBrtg/UNb6I9MDl4I/AAAAAAAAA4M/mbQIxOYqawo/s1600/DSCF7601.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xYEKgBfBrtg/UNb6I9MDl4I/AAAAAAAAA4M/mbQIxOYqawo/s400/DSCF7601.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">sushi from the conveyor belt restaurant near Starbucks, 3rd floor New Chitose Airport</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tGV6nEwiTLU/UNb9DtuHBQI/AAAAAAAAA4w/VtfT6IeV7yI/s1600/NewChitoseAirport.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tGV6nEwiTLU/UNb9DtuHBQI/AAAAAAAAA4w/VtfT6IeV7yI/s320/NewChitoseAirport.jpg" width="230" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><b><br /></b><br /><b>Niseko</b><br />Niseko is almost a 'little Australia', and during the Xmas period I'd guess three quarters of people there, including many working in the restaurants, are Aussies, and most of the rest also foreigners, including many from Hong Kong and Singapore.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dkbqk-MUpiU/UNbKEO4u_II/AAAAAAAAA3E/Brcm-8ikmZw/s1600/DSCF9082.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Dkbqk-MUpiU/UNbKEO4u_II/AAAAAAAAA3E/Brcm-8ikmZw/s640/DSCF9082.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />On the slopes themselves, food is mostly a matter of survival. Most places will serve white rice and "fried potatoes". King Bell on the Hirafu Slopes serve pizzas with dairy-free bases, and a pizza base with tomato sauce and basil was better than it sounded, even by the fourth one.<br />The Grand Hirafu Area was also the best area for night skiing, largely because the Gondola runs until late.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8oLxlFL4rNM/UNbIKlNQXwI/AAAAAAAAA2s/SnKTfffbZLk/s1600/DSCF9028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="258" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8oLxlFL4rNM/UNbIKlNQXwI/AAAAAAAAA2s/SnKTfffbZLk/s400/DSCF9028.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Best on the Niseko slopes: a vegan pizza base, chips and rice from King Bell in the Grand Hirafu &nbsp;ski area.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />At Annupuri, my favourite of the four ski areas, the Nook do a green salad, rice and "friend potatoes" - usual vegan fare. Beware that the last bus back to Hirafu leaves just after 8PM - I found out the hard way that it's a long taxi ride around the mountain, as easy as it seems to ski over it.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FAG50_PMx_A/UNbH6L9StuI/AAAAAAAAA2k/oKWVe4GmSFo/s1600/DSCF9063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="173" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FAG50_PMx_A/UNbH6L9StuI/AAAAAAAAA2k/oKWVe4GmSFo/s320/DSCF9063.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Best of Annupuri: a vegan lunch at the Nook, Annupuri ski area.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The Niseko Village Area area was the worst, with the restaurants (including the Lookout Cafe on the slopes) seemingly dominated by the Hilton Hotel, with food and prices to match. I couldn't find anything vegan, and prices for drinks were ridiculous. I don't recommend this area.<br /><br />I never made it to the Hanozono Resort Area, so if there's a vegan cafe there I missed it.<br /><br />For dinner, or a break during lunch, walk or take the shuttle bus to the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.tajmahalgroup.com/niseko.aspx" target="_blank">Taj Mahal restaurant</a>, about half a kilometre from the Grand Hirafu area. They were happy to make food vegan (and clearly made the effort to check ingredients) and the food, while the typical North Indian fare found all over Japan, was excellent.<br /><br />On Sunday they have a buffet. Needless to say, little of it (basically Pappadoms and one curry) was vegan, but they cooked me roti, an additional Channa Masala and offered alternatives to other items not vegan. All up, it was a great deal at 1950 Yen (my other meals there were about the same price).&nbsp;The owner, originally from Bombay, has lived in Japan for fourty years, and he also has branches in Chitose (near the airport) and Sapporo.&nbsp;The Taj Mahal is the obvious choice for dinners or a good satisfying lunch while at Niseko.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xt9LuIqdcUU/UNbK6OgQQEI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/ayygGjis9W8/s1600/DSCF9100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="326" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xt9LuIqdcUU/UNbK6OgQQEI/AAAAAAAAA3Q/ayygGjis9W8/s400/DSCF9100.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">A vegan modification of the Sunday buffet meal at the Taj Mahal - a great deal at 1950 Yen!</td></tr></tbody></table><br />They also have two buses/vans in the area, one by Seicomart, offering hot food on the go. I found the quality (not surprisingly) much lower than the restaurant, so it's well worth the walk to get the food fresh from the kitchen rather than from the microwave.<br /><br /><b>Kokusai</b><br />Kokusai, which literally translates to 'international' (though I only saw one other foreigner there, among several hundred Japanese - quite the opposite of Niseko) is about a two hour bus ride from Sapporo Station. Compared to Niseko, I found its runs to be longer and wider, and I enjoyed skiing there a lot.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vk4E64iCMs8/UOPnm8tai2I/AAAAAAAAA-0/o1mer0YZ2aA/s1600/DSCF9303.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vk4E64iCMs8/UOPnm8tai2I/AAAAAAAAA-0/o1mer0YZ2aA/s640/DSCF9303.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">the view from outside the gondola at Kokusai Ski Resort</td></tr></tbody></table><br />It also has two Gondolas to near the top of the mountain, so this and the wide, long runs meant that a greater proportion of my time was spent skiing than on chairlifts or in cues than at other skifields.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pHAGcivq0RY/UOPn9WBDZ6I/AAAAAAAAA_k/4az0QuySJR4/s1600/DSCF9311.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pHAGcivq0RY/UOPn9WBDZ6I/AAAAAAAAA_k/4az0QuySJR4/s400/DSCF9311.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Kokusai base</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ay3tfz8uqfA/UOPn-lwz0tI/AAAAAAAAA_s/du_xjvb9u0Q/s1600/DSCF9322.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ay3tfz8uqfA/UOPn-lwz0tI/AAAAAAAAA_s/du_xjvb9u0Q/s400/DSCF9322.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">once the sun came out, the views from the gondola were spectacular</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Don't expect much for lunch though. The only thing I could find at all (other than french fries) was freshly baked sweet potato (that's kumara for any kiwis reading this) from the dining area to the far right in this photo.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yvbf7DcR-FE/UOPn_up_fOI/AAAAAAAAA_0/VbwqbYNiaBY/s1600/DSCF9330.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yvbf7DcR-FE/UOPn_up_fOI/AAAAAAAAA_0/VbwqbYNiaBY/s400/DSCF9330.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">enter at the far right of this building (as seen from this direction) and sweet potato are sold at the first counter.</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--BlX9sybmzs/UOPn8ORljAI/AAAAAAAAA_c/YIPpAajcQTE/s1600/DSCF9309.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--BlX9sybmzs/UOPn8ORljAI/AAAAAAAAA_c/YIPpAajcQTE/s400/DSCF9309.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">morning tea, lunch (and dinner if you stay long enough) at Kokusai Ski Resort</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><b>Mt Moiwa Ski Resort</b><br />For a more family affair, head to Mt Moiwa Ski field, near Sapporo. This is where families come for a day skiing, and where working folk duck by for a quick night ski after work. Facilities here are very simple, and food very basic. I found nothing vegan except fries and rice.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I3nnuzIWowY/UOPn3cf_yDI/AAAAAAAAA-8/E40f5j3mZf0/s1600/DSCF9277.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I3nnuzIWowY/UOPn3cf_yDI/AAAAAAAAA-8/E40f5j3mZf0/s400/DSCF9277.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Mt Moiwa Ski area, close to Sapporo</td></tr></tbody></table>Note: I am writing about the Mt Moiwa near central Sapporo. There is a much larger Mt Moiwa Ski resort close to Niseko, which I didn't go to. Also note that this is a skier only area (no snowboarding).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5zm5-YfkbDI/UOPn4Z_JN8I/AAAAAAAAA_E/kvWFF_FrH0s/s1600/DSCF9285.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5zm5-YfkbDI/UOPn4Z_JN8I/AAAAAAAAA_E/kvWFF_FrH0s/s400/DSCF9285.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The views of Sapporo were amazing!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />To get there, take the subway to Makomanai Station, and then there is a shuttle bus (or a taxi) from there.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5zm5-YfkbDI/UOPn4Z_JN8I/AAAAAAAAA_E/kvWFF_FrH0s/s1600/DSCF9285.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7PZlleh_MPE/UOPn5skgd9I/AAAAAAAAA_M/BGOIQczbdh4/s1600/DSCF9296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7PZlleh_MPE/UOPn5skgd9I/AAAAAAAAA_M/BGOIQczbdh4/s400/DSCF9296.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">my favourite run at Mt Moiwa</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pHAGcivq0RY/UOPn9WBDZ6I/AAAAAAAAA_k/4az0QuySJR4/s1600/DSCF9311.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><b>SAPPORO</b><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pU8M52GwRFk/UOPzUczpLmI/AAAAAAAABCU/fBaNq_1SIoU/s1600/DSCF9166.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pU8M52GwRFk/UOPzUczpLmI/AAAAAAAABCU/fBaNq_1SIoU/s640/DSCF9166.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />If you're in Hokkaido, chances are you'll go to Sapporo. I found it to be a very pleasant, liveable city. Being a planned city, it has straight, wide streets, and a central park-like avenue (Oodori) running right through the centre. It reminded me very much of Christchurch (especially with the hills in the distance) and of Kaohsiung, which was probably planned and built by Japanese at around the same time.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-700txGo2Q5I/UOPz8EpTbqI/AAAAAAAABCc/4dWSeZICW5Q/s1600/DSCF9200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-700txGo2Q5I/UOPz8EpTbqI/AAAAAAAABCc/4dWSeZICW5Q/s400/DSCF9200.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Oodori, central Sapporo</td></tr></tbody></table><br />&nbsp;I recommend three places to eat in Sapporo, all from&nbsp;<a href="http://www.happycow.net/asia/japan/sapporo/" target="_blank">Happycow</a>.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews.php?id=13094" target="_blank">Aoi Sora Organic Cafe</a><br />Being Sapporo's only vegetarian cafe (it's actually vegan and organic) this should be top of the list. The meal was fresh and delicious (such a change from days of rice and French fries) and the friendly owner speaks good English. It's well worth the effort to get there.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g1o2IdtHduc/UOPsWGd8GfI/AAAAAAAABAQ/jQMsNTqCi7U/s1600/DSCF9153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="371" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g1o2IdtHduc/UOPsWGd8GfI/AAAAAAAABAQ/jQMsNTqCi7U/s640/DSCF9153.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">a set lunch from Ao Sora Organic Cafe, Sapporo</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews.php?id=33663" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Iki Laboratory</span></a><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Iki Laboratory (it's r<span style="font-size: small;">eally a restaurant) labels many items on its menu 'vegan' and 'oriental vegetarian' (<span class="short_text" id="result_box" lang="zh-TW"><span class="">全素 - no garlic or onion).&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">Portions&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">were small (<span style="font-size: small;">as normal in Japan) but for such excellent food, it was still good value.&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j2EJ3vSGHXc/UOPwEB4bssI/AAAAAAAABAs/dnyLf-mHH3E/s1600/DSCF9143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j2EJ3vSGHXc/UOPwEB4bssI/AAAAAAAABAs/dnyLf-mHH3E/s400/DSCF9143.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">potato salad from Iki Laboratory</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fw_wuxiGXSI/UOPxFWnjlcI/AAAAAAAABBI/U3iWmsLBxa4/s1600/DSCF9147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fw_wuxiGXSI/UOPxFWnjlcI/AAAAAAAABBI/U3iWmsLBxa4/s400/DSCF9147.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">I think these were made from gluten, but I can't remember what they were called.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ucFn9QczCEE/UOPxeu6eygI/AAAAAAAABBk/aX1tswDOBKg/s1600/DSCF9149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ucFn9QczCEE/UOPxeu6eygI/AAAAAAAABBk/aX1tswDOBKg/s400/DSCF9149.JPG" width="332" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">parfait - Iki Laboratory</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews.php?id=30636" target="_blank"><b>Jyoto</b></a><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Jyoti is an Indian restaurant right in central Sapporo. It serves typical but delicious North Indian food. It's friendly owner, Mahavira, is vegetarian, and uses separate utensils for his own food and vegetarian customers. I twice had the vegetarian set, with a Lacha Paratha (a kind of flaky bread which I'd never tried before) instead of the Naan. The staff were friendly and efficient and the food was excellent.</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ay3tfz8uqfA/UOPn-lwz0tI/AAAAAAAAA_s/du_xjvb9u0Q/s1600/DSCF9322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6j23G3PQy9g/UOPynR7dNTI/AAAAAAAABCE/KjeEO2MUxBo/s1600/DSCF9169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6j23G3PQy9g/UOPynR7dNTI/AAAAAAAABCE/KjeEO2MUxBo/s400/DSCF9169.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">starters at Jyoti, central Sapporo</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ay3tfz8uqfA/UOPn-lwz0tI/AAAAAAAAA_s/du_xjvb9u0Q/s1600/DSCF9322.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CX78qQAy6Ds/UOPywyWuDTI/AAAAAAAABCM/AFsr9cukMM8/s1600/DSCF9173.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CX78qQAy6Ds/UOPywyWuDTI/AAAAAAAABCM/AFsr9cukMM8/s400/DSCF9173.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Lacha Parathi, dal and vegetable curry from Jyoti</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yvbf7DcR-FE/UOPn_up_fOI/AAAAAAAAA_0/VbwqbYNiaBY/s1600/DSCF9330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><br /></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-6018184562592125972013-07-19T07:34:00.000-07:002013-08-18T01:20:38.977-07:00Outing: Hakone<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">A popular day-trip from Tokyo is&nbsp;<a href="http://wikitravel.org/en/Hakone" target="_blank">Hakone</a>, a small town about two hours from Tokyo. While it's famous for its beautiful views of Mount Fuji (when it's not shrouded in cloud) and geothermal activity - including a region unsafe for asthmatics due to the sulphur content of the air - Hakone's novel attraction is the possibility of riding five modes of transport: a (somewhat tacky) pirate ship across a beautiful lake, a gondola, a cable car, a switchback train and an ordinary train.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2sj7i7kgHR0/UIuXDE2AQiI/AAAAAAAAAwo/IpPlXipp2Ss/s1600/DSCF6854.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2sj7i7kgHR0/UIuXDE2AQiI/AAAAAAAAAwo/IpPlXipp2Ss/s640/DSCF6854.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Hakone is famous for its views of Mount Fuji.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Aside from the different forms of transport, passengers can get off the gondola half way down (or up) and walk through a geothermal area high in sulpherous gases. Unfortunately the main attraction is considered to be black eggs cooked in the sulpherous water.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PZgw1Evjkiw/UIuXX48QaYI/AAAAAAAAAww/kjudi7M9lkU/s1600/DSCF6870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="254" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PZgw1Evjkiw/UIuXX48QaYI/AAAAAAAAAww/kjudi7M9lkU/s320/DSCF6870.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Owakudani (Great Boiling Valley) is not for the asthmatic.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />There is plenty of information around about Hakone, however on my first visit my only meal of the day included a small bowl of fried rice with soy sauce and a few frozen vegetables, and even then only thanks to a kind-hearted foreigner who translated my strange needs to the bewildered staff of a tiny restaurant. However, second time around, my parents and I found this charming sushi jaunt run by a very helpful couple who understood quickly what we ate and didn't.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gz7JLSWiXsM/UIvOjKC_GJI/AAAAAAAAAxY/0UWpXNH4OMk/s1600/DSCF7861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gz7JLSWiXsM/UIvOjKC_GJI/AAAAAAAAAxY/0UWpXNH4OMk/s320/DSCF7861.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Hakone's only vegan meal can be found here, just before the Open Air Museum.</td></tr></tbody></table>There are four types of vegan sushi available: cucumber and two root vegetables, and inari sushi (deep fried tofu pockets). The first three come in a set. These trays are great value at between 500 and 800 Yen each.<br /><br />The sushi bar is located just outside Chukoku-no-mori station on the Hakone Tozan line (the switchback train). It's just outside the station on the way to the Open Air Museum. It's open from 9AM to 8PM, and is closed on Thursdays. Beware that the Open Air Museum closes at 5PM with the last admissions at 4:30, so if you've done the circuit starting with the pirate ship and intend to visit the museum, it might be best to visit the museum first, and have dinner here before making your way back to Tokyo. Alternatively, if you go around anti-clockwise, it might make a good lunch spot. Generally which way around one goes is worked out by when the odds are best from seeing Mt Fuji, and whether one wants to see it from the lake or the mountains (while on the gondola and at the geothermal area).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nEnqnnGksFA/UIvONqgNcvI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/q5Jti4wIqMQ/s1600/sushi_hakone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="286" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nEnqnnGksFA/UIvONqgNcvI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/q5Jti4wIqMQ/s640/sushi_hakone.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">After a long day exploring Hakone, this fresh, delicious sushi is just what is needed.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />These dishes are all common sushi dishes which can be found all over Japan, particularly at kaiten sushi (conveyor belt) restaurants and often even at grocery stores and even convenience stores. While visiting Japan one should try eating these, though they may sometimes be all you can find, especially in more remote areas, however what makes these worth blogging about is that they are, as far as I can tell, the only vegan food in Hakone.<br /><br />Being regarded as a top tourist attraction from Tokyo, and a fun day out (or overnighter), it seems worth mentioning on this blog where vegan food can be found, however beware that Hakone can get very crowded, especially during the weekend, and can feel very 'packaged', particularly on the transport circuit. So Hakone may not be for everyone. If you do go I recommend spending at least a couple of days there, preferably not on a weekend (or popular holiday period) and spending one day off the tourist route exploring the area on foot. I enjoyed walking the&nbsp;<a href="http://japantourist.jp/view/the-old-hakone-highway-hike" target="_blank">Old Hakone Highway</a>.</div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-8364744256642455982013-07-19T07:33:00.001-07:002016-03-04T06:52:41.211-08:00Outing: Kamakura<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div><br />Kamakura is a charming seaside little town about an hour from Tokyo, famous for its beach and temples. It was the de facto capital of Japan during the Kamakura Period from 1185 to 1333, during which time Japan was ruled by the Kamakura Shoganate and the famous samurai class emerged. Kamakura is a popular day or overnight trip from Tokyo.</div><div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1-B1qH6jAXg/UJ5ENkJGXcI/AAAAAAAAAzU/a_Vh3OuM1qs/s1600/DSCF7362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1-B1qH6jAXg/UJ5ENkJGXcI/AAAAAAAAAzU/a_Vh3OuM1qs/s400/DSCF7362.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">The 750-year-old Daibutsu (big Buddha) is Kamakura's icon.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />The temples are beautiful, and there are some nice walks around the place.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLTsZ-8xasY/UJ5EsJGj2QI/AAAAAAAAAzc/dNhk5G_LxZM/s1600/DSCF7342.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GLTsZ-8xasY/UJ5EsJGj2QI/AAAAAAAAAzc/dNhk5G_LxZM/s400/DSCF7342.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">The Daibutsu Hiking Path is a beautiful escape from the city. It takes about an hour from&nbsp; Jochi-ji Temple to the Daibutsu.&nbsp;</td><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"></td></tr></tbody></table><br />&nbsp;It's also possible to cycle to Kamakura from Tokyo (or Yokohama) but there isn't a good route, so expect lots of traffic.<br /><br />For a few weeks during the summer vacation period the beaches really comes alive, with locker, changing and shower facilities being erected on the sand, and crowds flocking to swim, sunbathe and just enjoy the beach environment.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5ohw4tHjWuE/UdD9YVK6j_I/AAAAAAAABYI/J3dZ_u41kGY/s800/DSCF0528.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5ohw4tHjWuE/UdD9YVK6j_I/AAAAAAAABYI/J3dZ_u41kGY/s400/DSCF0528.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">beach facilities being constructed in late June</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b>Yuigahama Beach</b><br />Yuigahama is the easiest beach to reach, being a short ride on the tram (Enoden / electric railway) from Kamakura station.&nbsp;The beach also becomes a real party-zone, with beach-side bars and dance floors if that's your thing.&nbsp;All constructions disappear promptly after the vacation period, at which time the beach returns to its former pristine state. &nbsp;Beware of jellyfish in the water during the really warm months - I learned the hard way.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MMBqI1034uc/UIuWQZC6VQI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/qv4KPn4JSCI/s1600/DSCF7011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MMBqI1034uc/UIuWQZC6VQI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/qv4KPn4JSCI/s400/DSCF7011.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Yuigahama Beach at Kamakura comes alive during the hot summer months.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Right across from Yuigahama Beach itself, is the veg-friendly Organic and Hemp Style Cafe and Bar.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iMy1ef4Vmuk/UdEBFu42YwI/AAAAAAAABZA/cOf1STWgp2g/s707/DSCF0533.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iMy1ef4Vmuk/UdEBFu42YwI/AAAAAAAABZA/cOf1STWgp2g/s400/DSCF0533.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The Organic &amp;amp; Hemp Style Cafe, Yuigahama Beach, Kamakura</td></tr></tbody></table>The interior could be described as 'hippy", with a few hemp products for sale, and the food is excellent. While unfortunately it's not vegan anymore, the staff all have a good understanding of veganism and I've never had any problems ordering delicious food.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6A05r3JKEmE/UJ5G9bTMd1I/AAAAAAAAAzs/KEAZ8fQBPjU/s1600/DSCF7382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6A05r3JKEmE/UJ5G9bTMd1I/AAAAAAAAAzs/KEAZ8fQBPjU/s400/DSCF7382.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">the vegetarian dinner set at The Hemp Style Cafe, Kamakura</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PhjELemNnPo/UIuW4mKnLdI/AAAAAAAAAwg/dRTtfqRDMpI/s1600/DSCF7016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PhjELemNnPo/UIuW4mKnLdI/AAAAAAAAAwg/dRTtfqRDMpI/s400/DSCF7016.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">fried tempura and the best pickles I've ever eaten</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Nearby in Hase are the expensive but very good <a href="http://sairam.asia/" target="_blank">Sairam</a>,which offer deliicous, vegan meals with a beautiful waterfront view. <br /><br /><b>Zushi</b><br />Zushi is like a smaller, quieter Kamakura, also with a beach and a few temples. And I was pleased to learn from a colleague recently that, like Kamakura, Zushi has a (mostly) vegan cafe.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.beachmuffin.net/Beach_Muffin/home.html" target="_blank">Beach Muffin</a>&nbsp;serves a delicious range of baking, and vegan meals. The bakery is open from 9:30 to 7:00, and the cafe from 11AM (also to 7PM).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NReMAQ9wwmc/UdEGcAL6W8I/AAAAAAAABZQ/QYw42IdILhU/s678/DSCF0540.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NReMAQ9wwmc/UdEGcAL6W8I/AAAAAAAABZQ/QYw42IdILhU/s640/DSCF0540.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Beach Muffin, a mostly-vegan bakery and cafe, Kamakura</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Unfortunately I arrived after the kitchen had closed (I guess about an hour before closing time), so only the bakery was open, but the cafe&nbsp;<a href="http://www.beachmuffin.net/Beach_Muffin/menu.html" target="_blank">menu</a>&nbsp;includes burgers and burritos.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b0A386Cs078/UdEGqBRCXUI/AAAAAAAABZY/5FRHBjqmkBc/s800/DSCF0543.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b0A386Cs078/UdEGqBRCXUI/AAAAAAAABZY/5FRHBjqmkBc/s400/DSCF0543.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">herb tea and dessert from Beach Muffin</td></tr></tbody></table><br />One thing that impresses me about Beach Muffin is how well they promote veganism to their non-vegan clientele.&nbsp; However, beware that a few of the baked goods contain egg and dairy, and they are labelled in Japanese only, so it's important to specify that you are vegan when you order.<br /><br />It's possible to take a bus from Yuigahama to Zushi, but as of June 2013, Google Maps isn't working properly for buses. Alternatively it will take about half an hour to reach Beach Muffin from Yuigahama (changing trains at Kamakura). It would also be a very pleasant 5 kilometre bike ride (or walk) along the beach.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="350" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004cd45b4cd7babe6a79&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;source=embed&amp;ll=35.302097,139.555893&amp;spn=0.049033,0.072956&amp;z=13&amp;output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br /></div><small>View&nbsp;<a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004cd45b4cd7babe6a79&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;source=embed&amp;ll=35.302097,139.555893&amp;spn=0.049033,0.072956&amp;z=13" style="color: blue;">Vegan Kamakura</a>&nbsp;in a larger map</small></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-41135722003503716562013-07-19T07:31:00.001-07:002017-09-17T07:03:52.927-07:00Vegan Survival in Japan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">This topic might sound a little depressing, but often finding food really is a matter of survival, especially outside the main city centres. Once while staying a way out of the centre of Sapporo (skiing) I was very hungry and knew that I needed a good hit of calories for my last day on the slopes the next day, and in desperation I bought a block of tofu from a convenience store (no sauces I could find) and ate it raw, standing over my hotel room sink. This is about as bad as it gets, but often in Japan food comes down to simply getting enough calories, and desperate times can call for desperate measures.<br /><div><br />Japan is a fascinating and rewarding country to live, so I wouldn't suggest letting food put one off coming (to visit or to live), however it's strongly advisable to live in one of the major cities (unless one is content to cook at home and almost never eat out with friends/colleagues).<br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Convenience Stores</h2><div style="text-align: left;">Life on the go in Japan recently because easier since the introduction of macrobiotic snacks at many convenience stores, especially Lawsons. I like the chocolate brownie the most, and it's also the most commonly available, and is even sold at some small convenience stores inside train stations.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2l6ct5_vkmI/Wb5_Zrgw62I/AAAAAAAAF8g/vDKTrdc_Hh8drMwAhQxz9pBCg9YVsvQBACLcBGAs/s1600/Macrobiotic%2BCookies%2B2017.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="1600" height="254" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2l6ct5_vkmI/Wb5_Zrgw62I/AAAAAAAAF8g/vDKTrdc_Hh8drMwAhQxz9pBCg9YVsvQBACLcBGAs/s640/Macrobiotic%2BCookies%2B2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The whole range of these macrobiotic cookies are all vegan. </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;If these aren't available then 7-Elevens and other stores sell vegan soymilk, which can be added to black coffee to make a latte of sorts. The plain rice onigiri are just rice, so are fine, and edamame (cooked soybeans) are just soybeans fried in light oil.<br /><br />Soyjoy Crispy bars are vegan, however the regular (not crispy) ones contain egg.&nbsp;<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJXr3wku-ac/Wb6AhZTAFYI/AAAAAAAAF8o/zw1tVxNAf-wefrNSupXVqEX4B2trAC9VACLcBGAs/s1600/SoyJoy%2BCrispy%2BBars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZJXr3wku-ac/Wb6AhZTAFYI/AAAAAAAAF8o/zw1tVxNAf-wefrNSupXVqEX4B2trAC9VACLcBGAs/s400/SoyJoy%2BCrispy%2BBars.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Only the Crispy Series are vegan.</i></b> </td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div></div><br />There are many sites and posts about food available in convenience stores, as it's often the only option for food. I recently found&nbsp;<a href="http://isitveganjapan.com/" target="_blank">This site on vegan products in Japan</a>&nbsp;which is far more comprehensive than what I have here (and is written by people with better Japanese skills). However, products in convenience stores come and go quickly and <b>ingredients change</b>, and I'm yet to find a website detailing vegan products which is kept reliable and up to date, and I'm not going to attempt myself either.<br /><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6OmJQoVx3WM/Vma63x4YmII/AAAAAAAAFQQ/hCcHraiIH80/s1600/Japan%2Bconvenience%2Bstore%2Bfood.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6OmJQoVx3WM/Vma63x4YmII/AAAAAAAAFQQ/hCcHraiIH80/s640/Japan%2Bconvenience%2Bstore%2Bfood.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">As good as it usually gets from a konbini (convenience store): a black coffee, soymilk (mix for a latte), a plain rice ball and edamame (soybeans).</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div>Rice balls (like onigiri, but just plan rice) are usually vegan, having only rice and sushi vinegar. Sometimes vegan onigiri (triangular rice pockets) come and go, but most contain fish derivatives or unknown amino acids (which may be derived from fish). <br /><br />Edamame (triangular packet above) are just whole soybeans (in their pods) cooked in vegetable oil.<br />Black coffee is of course vegan, and the soymilk shown above is vegan, and can be mixed to make a latte. You'll find better at Starbucks, but this is as good as it usually gets in the inaka (countryside).<br /><br /><b>Sometimes using Google Translate</b>&nbsp;helps to read ingredients on food products, but very few ready-to-eat packaged foods in Japan are vegan, especially from convenience stores. It usually brings up ambiguous ingredients (eg amino acid - see below) but it's worth a try, especially for products which have few ingredients.<br /><br /><br /><b>Most products aren't vegan, even if they seem like they 'should be'.</b>&nbsp; <br />In short, unless you can read the ingredients (yourself, or with Google Translator or similar) never assume something is vegan. Bags of nuts are often ok, but many come with fish (no joke, but they're usually shown in pictures) and I recently found that a packet of peanuts were cooked in butter oil!?! As noted below, breads from convenience stores always contain dairy and/or egg.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RbTuARCuLNs/U-r9GltL-FI/AAAAAAAACkw/Z6sUzQLzvPk/s1600/DSCF0272.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RbTuARCuLNs/U-r9GltL-FI/AAAAAAAACkw/Z6sUzQLzvPk/s1600/DSCF0272.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These Inari Sushi are safely vegan, because <a href="http://vegantaiwan.blogspot.jp/2009/06/new-vegetarian-labelling-coming-in.html" target="_blank">they're from Taiwan</a>. But most in Japan probably aren't, despite popular belief to the contrary. Some contain meat and most contain stocks or suspect amino acids.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div>Many websites claim that inari sushi (pita pockets) are usually vegan. They are sometimes, but many also contain stocks which may or may not be animal-derived, including an unknown amino acid which is used in most takeout meals foods in Japan.<br /><br />Most convenience stores sell bags of nuts, but watch out for small fish in them (I'm not joking). Seom also contain butter oil (shown below), however some "butter peanuts" are actually made only with vegetable oil.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8CPQkkA7qiQ/U-r9s0Fz5zI/AAAAAAAACk4/9k-iqi_lWpA/s1600/DSCF0665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8CPQkkA7qiQ/U-r9s0Fz5zI/AAAAAAAACk4/9k-iqi_lWpA/s400/DSCF0665.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Never Be Too Careful: It didn't occur to me to check the ingredients of these peanuts, which are cooked in <b>butter oil</b> (バターオイル) &nbsp;and even have a red warning that they contain dairy products.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Tofu</h3>Tofu is usually vegan, but it can be made with nigari (にがり, traditional, vegan) or glycerine (グリセリン), which may be animal-derived.<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Fried Potatoes (Chips, French Fries)</h3>Chips (French Fries) known as Fried Potatoes in Japan are sold all over the country, including in many convenience stores. Most ones for sale in supermarkets don't contain any animal ingredients (generally just potato and a cheap oil) and, according to their allergen charts, 7-11 ones do not contain beef, chicken, pork, fish, dairy or egg, so are probably vegan? At other restaurants there are always concerns over what seasonings may be used (and it's never possible to really find out) but they are a possibility.<br /><br /><h2>Kaiten Sushi Restaurants (Conveyor Belts)</h2>Most kaiten sushi (conveyor belt places) have a few vegan options, including kapamaki (cucumber), pickle, gourd and another purplish vegetable with a very distinctive flavour (name in English and Japanese to come). &nbsp;These sushi places can be found all over Japan. It's difficult to explain what you don't eat though, and chefs will rarely speak English. Check for dashi (fish flakes).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DkdfOHYoGzY/UlgBVZNRM3I/AAAAAAAAB94/IyCPz6WQN3o/s1600/DSCF7601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DkdfOHYoGzY/UlgBVZNRM3I/AAAAAAAAB94/IyCPz6WQN3o/s320/DSCF7601.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">typical vegan conveyor-belt sushi options, this time from <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/10/skiing-in-hokkaido.html" target="_blank">Sapporo Airport</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Stack your plates up neatly. They are colour-coded, and at the end a staff member will count the plates to determine your bill. Since the vegetable dishes are generally considered 'snacks' a vegan meal at these places can be very cheap.<br /><br /><h2>Soup Stock Tokyo</h2>Soup Stock Tokyo are the only chain store I know of which are worth visiting (unless truly desperate). Their menu is continually changing, but usually includes at least one vegan soup. All restaurants have lists of ingredients (in Japanese, and sometimes in English) for the soups, and so long as they are not too busy staff are generally willing to read/translate the list and find a vegan one. They only prepare a few of the (also changing) menu on any given day, but if they aren't too busy, staff are sometimes willing to cook up the vegetarian one if they don't have it served.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dLLqoczZeCE/UfYN3e0vwEI/AAAAAAAABcQ/_Jo2Y3Ta5II/s1600/IMAG0833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dLLqoczZeCE/UfYN3e0vwEI/AAAAAAAABcQ/_Jo2Y3Ta5II/s640/IMAG0833.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soup Stock Tokyo are usually a good bet for a quick vegan meal.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />I once was fortunate enough to be able to see the ingredients of their bread rolls, and they were vegan, but it's unlikely other breads are, so if possible ask to see the ingredients first.<br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Chabuton</h2>Chabuton are a chain ramen restaurant, which offer two vegan dishes: ramen and gyoza (dumplings). The ramen aren't bad at all, and it's good to show demand for a vegan dish, but of course it's no substitute for T's Tantan, the all-vegan ramen and curry restaurant in Tokyo Station.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zO-FBa-vxVE/UlkpqbKIuMI/AAAAAAAAB-w/pnJN6mkVzO8/s1600/IMAG0748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zO-FBa-vxVE/UlkpqbKIuMI/AAAAAAAAB-w/pnJN6mkVzO8/s320/IMAG0748.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bowl of vegan ramen from Chabuton (Yokohama branch)</td></tr></tbody></table><br />While the staff should know how to cook the ramen by the ("100% vegetable") recipe, don't expect them to know or understand anything about veganism (or most likely speak much English) so assume that any condiments supplied aren't vegan.<br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Other Chain Restaurants</h2>There are many chain stores such as <i>Jonathons</i> which serve simple Japanese-style food. Most will serve &nbsp;chips (fried potato, which may or may not be vegan) and white rice, and an all-you-can-drink (non-alcoholic) "drinks bar". Jonathon's also serve baked potatoes, so it's possible to order one without the butter or meat filling. These places may be a last resort at times, but that's all they should be.<br /><br /><b>Don't Go To Subway</b><br />For a long time I ate at subway restaurants, assuming that the bread followed international recipes. I have since learned though that the breads all contain dairy products. Also, another 'surprise' many years ago was that the red wine vinegarette contains microscopic pieces of bacon (yes, really) and the 'chilli-tomato' sauce also contains meat. So an 'oil-vinegar-salt-pepper' salad might be ok, but my suggestion is to stay away from Subway restaurants.<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Stay Away from Tofu and "Vegetable" Restaurants</h3>Japan has many restaurants dedicated to tofu, and these are often the first suggestions to vegans looking for food (especially by foreigners). However, these are actually the worst restaurants to go to, as the stocks used (virtually) all contain fish products.<br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Solutions?</h2><h3 style="text-align: left;">Give Up Cooked Food</h3>It's taken me two years to really come to understand this, but the concept of eating cooked food two or three times, or even once per day is purely a cultural habit. We just need calories for energy (though some findings are questioning even that, such as <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v29clGMWU84" target="_blank">this study on Nepal's Buddha Boy</a>, but that's another story). There's really no reason not to be able to eat nuts, fresh and dried fruits etc for a few days. They can be easily carried around, or bought from supermarkets and convenience stores. I'm finding it easier and easier, but still find I really need hot meals after skiing, perhaps because of the cold and the energy burned during hours on the slopes. But even then it's becomming easier and easier to not eat cooked food.<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Carry Bread</h3>Buy a loaf of bread from an organic shop (or order it online) and carry it with you (see below that most bread isn't vegan). Beware that many bakeries label allergens (including milk and egg) but may not include lard, so be sure to ask or buy imported bread from an organic shop with ingredients labelled in English (or German, as many breads here are). It will last anything from a few days (summer) to a week or longer (Hokkaido in winter!). Hotel breakfasts (which usually only have white rice, salad and fresh or tinned fruit) often have a toaster oven and breads, so it's possible to carry in a few slices in a ziplock bag and cook it in the oven yourself, which helps as it gets older. They often even have jam to eat it with. A few slices of toast with jam goes a long way if you need to wait for cafes to open for lunch. As I say, this post is about survival.<br /><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Warnings</span></span></h2><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">There<span style="font-size: small;">'s little to warn about safety-wise in Tokyo (except banging your head on things if you're over&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">s<span style="font-size: small;">ix foot) but&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></span>&nbsp;there are a few vegan traps. The first and generally well-known one is the fish-sauce, which leaves requires little explanation except to say that most chefs won't think about, or won't think their products contain it even if they do (miso soup is a common example). The other well-known one is 'dashi' - fish flakes which can be sprinkled over otherwise-vegan foods, such as sushi.<br /><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ly75UDaKoc/UTvppCGW30I/AAAAAAAABUc/qGazd-5P8wE/s1600/bfast_dashi_flakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ly75UDaKoc/UTvppCGW30I/AAAAAAAABUc/qGazd-5P8wE/s400/bfast_dashi_flakes.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">The owner/cook at this traditional pension &nbsp;took great care to prepare me a vegan breakfast. Unfortunately, she&nbsp;inadvertently&nbsp;added dashi flakes to the soy sauce with the tofu (not visible in this photo). It's not the first time I've encountered them in specially-prepared meals.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Less well known are that in Japan (like Taiwan), virtually <b>all breads, including those sold at convenience stores, contains milk and/or egg products</b>.&nbsp; There are a few exceptions, generally specialty European bakeries (which will sell you the most expensive bread you'll buy in your life) and a few supermarkets, which often label whether their breads contain milk or egg products (for people with allergies). This (to my recent unpleasant surprise) apparently includes the bread at subway restaurants (above).<br /><br />Also, Soyafarm soy yoghurts fooled me for two years. They should be a great product: they're dairy free with real live culture, which I used to make my own soy yoghurt. But now I know why my yoghurt never turned out quite like the starter: <b>they contain gelatine!?!?</b></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-79086597671757504942013-07-19T07:20:00.001-07:002013-07-22T00:15:41.696-07:00Veg'n Events in Tokyo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><div>While it's not London or New York, Tokyo has a few events of interest to resident or travelling vegans.<br /><br />The Tokyo Veg Festa (vegetarian festival) in October is the year's largest event, and it sees thousands of people visit dozens of stalls, most of which seem to do a roaring trade.&nbsp;Many organic and vegan restaurants and stores have stalls, and prices are generally good (I think lower than usual retain prices). I bought some Vegan Earth shoes while visiting the festival from Taiwan three years ago, and still wear them. All food served and sold is vegan (though it wouldn't hurt to check).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jsNPahGh84U/UIuNP17u00I/AAAAAAAAAv0/3mYWTJY8zYY/s1600/DSCF7653.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jsNPahGh84U/UIuNP17u00I/AAAAAAAAAv0/3mYWTJY8zYY/s320/DSCF7653.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">The annual Tokyo Veg Festa draws attracts thousands.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ph9bI6bQqp4/UIuNpEYrnxI/AAAAAAAAAv8/FJ1Jb467rRA/s1600/DSCF7765.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ph9bI6bQqp4/UIuNpEYrnxI/AAAAAAAAAv8/FJ1Jb467rRA/s320/DSCF7765.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">The Loving Hut seems to have a permanent long line.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />Almost as good is the Earth Day Festival in April, which also features a lot of vegetarian (and organic) food.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lC6TViXnXFc/UezbD3f2iBI/AAAAAAAABbs/Phd4JB4o5PI/s1600/DSCF6844.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="194" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lC6TViXnXFc/UezbD3f2iBI/AAAAAAAABbs/Phd4JB4o5PI/s320/DSCF6844.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Earth Day 2012</td></tr></tbody></table><br />A distant third is the 'Eco Life' festival (June), which from my experience in 2013 was worth passing by for a meal from the Loving Hut, but not for much else.<br /><br /><br />The annual anti-fur march (also in October) draws a few hundred people.<br /><br /><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pUPJF8_S2LQ/UI_MbVcjOlI/AAAAAAAAAx4/F_9flzfcOEs/s1600/DSCF7308.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="227" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pUPJF8_S2LQ/UI_MbVcjOlI/AAAAAAAAAx4/F_9flzfcOEs/s320/DSCF7308.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">The 2012 Anti-fur march is about to depart for a 1.5-hour walk through the nearby fashion districts.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br />All three festivals are held opposite NHK Hall, on the edge of Yoyogi Park. The anti-fur march also leaves from the same location.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="550" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004e1ddee452ea6f9f6f&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.660992,139.697857&amp;spn=0.019177,0.018239&amp;z=15&amp;output=embed" width="425"></iframe><br /></div><small>View <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004e1ddee452ea6f9f6f&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.660992,139.697857&amp;spn=0.019177,0.018239&amp;z=15&amp;source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Vegetarian Festival Location</a> in a larger map</small> <br /><br />Whether visiting or living in Tokyo, it's well worth going to a&nbsp;<a href="http://www.meetup.com/vegan-389/" target="_blank">vegan meetup</a>, especially the monthly Pink Cow buffets. The food is excellent (usually my best meal of the month), and it's a good chance to meet veg-minded and English-speaking (but not usually vegetarian) Japanese, and an eclectic mix of foreigners. Note that the majority of people there are not veg'n, and some don't even 'get it', not that this matters: it's great to see so many people enjoying a vegan meal. On one of my first meetups, after introducing myself to a resident foreigner in Tokyo as we cued up for the buffet, I mentioned that I was from New Zealand and he quickly told me how much he loved NZ because the fly fishing was so good.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yoTU6Tq5cOs/Uar5osJTZDI/AAAAAAAABV4/_OTx8IbQvLw/s1600/vegan_meetup_meal_2013_reduced.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yoTU6Tq5cOs/Uar5osJTZDI/AAAAAAAABV4/_OTx8IbQvLw/s320/vegan_meetup_meal_2013_reduced.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">I'm yet to master the fine Japanese art of making food *look* good on my plate, but this meal at the monthly Pink Cow vegan meetups is usually my best meal of the month.</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYepBTbFYf8/UNBRM1crtOI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/9f45DvbmGL4/s1600/DSCF7593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IYepBTbFYf8/UNBRM1crtOI/AAAAAAAAA1Y/9f45DvbmGL4/s320/DSCF7593.JPG" width="236" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">It's not just the trains: this Yokohama anti-fur march - walkable from my apartment - was due to start at 1PM.</td></tr></tbody></table></div></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-58681459277389455072013-07-19T06:55:00.001-07:002013-11-16T02:14:26.071-08:00Coffee Shops in Japan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">All&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">S</span>tarbucks&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">cafes in Japan serve soymilk, and&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">since giving up coffee I especially like Matcha (Japanese green tea) tea lattes.&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">The nice thing a<span style="font-size: small;">bout Japan is that they give you a&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">"soy" card at the&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">when you pay for the drink</span>, and th<span style="font-size: small;">en&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">you ha<span style="font-size: small;">nd this to t<span style="font-size: small;">he barrister upon collecting<span style="font-size: small;">&nbsp;it</span>.&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FbDv6iicdHc/Ulkkc7_5bHI/AAAAAAAAB-I/Ug-TOduO81s/s1600/IMAG0965.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FbDv6iicdHc/Ulkkc7_5bHI/AAAAAAAAB-I/Ug-TOduO81s/s320/IMAG0965.jpg" width="199" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This card is given at the counter and returned upon receiving the drink - a sure way to know that you're soy drink really is. Tulley's have recently introduced one.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">This prevents "<span style="font-size: small;">milk allergy&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">in</span>ciden<span style="font-size: small;">ts" (and&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">gut-wr<span style="font-size: small;">enching&nbsp;</span></span>surprises for vegans) caused by&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">miscommunication or staff for<span style="font-size: small;">getting the soy order,&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">which</span>&nbsp;I<span style="font-size: small;">'ve&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">e<span style="font-size: small;">xperienced in both Taiwan and&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">Korea. Starbuck<span style="font-size: small;">s also&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">have the added benefit of being non-smoking, as most cafes in Japan have 'smoking sections' but the smoke doesn't seem to understand&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">its restriction<span style="font-size: small;">&nbsp;to one&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">part of the cafeteria.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cjGF402I12c/UlkmlcuYUZI/AAAAAAAAB-k/1hUjoWJL-FI/s1600/DSCF2949.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cjGF402I12c/UlkmlcuYUZI/AAAAAAAAB-k/1hUjoWJL-FI/s320/DSCF2949.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 'Soymilk' sticker is an added security, as is the 'S' (for soymilk). The GTL = Green Tea Latte, my favourite drink since giving up coffee.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Starbucks also offer free wifi, but with a catch: you need to register first, and you need internet to register! It's a strange system (which seems surprisingly illogical for Japan) but I guess it's to offer the service to regular patrons (at the expense of travelers who often need it most). &nbsp;If you have a smartphone, you can use it to register, but then you probably don't need it as much . Therefore, it's best to <a href="http://starbucks.wi2.co.jp/sp/sma_index_en.html" target="_blank">set up a (free) account here</a> (from your home or hotel) first.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I r<span style="font-size: small;">ecently d<span style="font-size: small;">isc<span style="font-size: small;">overed that <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Tulleys&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">Coffee&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">cafes also&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">serve soymilk, and do a&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">good Matcha&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">Tea Latte (similar to Starbucks's). They also recently introduced <span style="font-size: small;">a <span style="font-size: small;">'S<span style="font-size: small;">oy' card, like that at <span style="font-size: small;">S</span>tarbucks. <span style="font-size: small;">I find their cafes are often more pleasant than <span style="font-size: small;">Starbucks, and it's often easier to find a seat in one. Even when full (as most cafes in Tokyo seem to be most of the time) I still find them <span style="font-size: small;">less crowded.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8uoRmD4A99M/UodE3uaS7JI/AAAAAAAACFY/KFcpoizviHY/s1600/DSCF3362.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8uoRmD4A99M/UodE3uaS7JI/AAAAAAAACFY/KFcpoizviHY/s320/DSCF3362.JPG" width="215" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a soy green tea latte from Tulleys</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">I am not aware of any coffee shops (other than perhaps some small macrobiotic restaurants) which serve any vegan food, except possibly some potato chips or similar. Starbucks have the courtesy to label common allergens, but as of July 2013 none are free of dairy and egg. I miss the blueberry bagel from Starbucks in Taiwan.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-43795523933846383482013-07-19T06:49:00.000-07:002017-09-24T01:26:00.382-07:00Vegan Groceries in Tokyo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">If you live here, sooner or later you'll want to stock up your kitchen<span style="font-size: small;">. I&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">really miss<span style="font-size: small;"> </span>Jasons from Taiwan<span style="font-size: small;">, and remember commen<span style="font-size: small;">ting to people that while Hsi<span style="font-size: small;">nchu<span style="font-size: small;"> </span>wasn't the most happening place on Earth, I was fortunate to b<span style="font-size: small;">e able to buy<span style="font-size: small;"> </span>cr<span style="font-size: small;">uelty-free products, marmite (a New Zealand spread) and a whole<span style="font-size: small;"> </span>asso<span style="font-size: small;">r<span style="font-size: small;">tment&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">of other western groceries&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">at one shop a few minutes scooter<span style="font-size: small;"> </span>ride&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">from where I&nbsp;<span style="font-size: small;">lived.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div>When I first arrived in Japan, I really struggled to find food, and basically lived from <a href="http://www.veganessentials.com/">Veganessentials</a>. On one hand, it's a ridiculous waste of resources having grains grown in one part of the world, shipped to the US to me made into instant burger mixes and the like, and then flown over to me in Japan to mix with water and fry up after work. On the other hand, it's supporting a good, all-vegan business, and sometimes ordering online from the US can be cheaper than buying the same products off the shelf in Tokyo (who may well just order them online themselves). I still order from the a lot, but not as much as when I first arrived here. I find their snack foods (energy bars etc) to be critical in surviving here in Japan, and carry them with me virtually everywhere.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">However I will recommend three shops, though there are plenty more I haven't tried yet. First,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.naturalmart.jp/" target="_blank">Natural Mart</a>&nbsp;(<a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews.php?id=11633" target="_blank">Happycow</a>) are tiny, well-stocked organic/natural foods restaurant and well worth a visit.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tYGPiyxcqf0/UTGyU1V-kTI/AAAAAAAABT8/wxdysuuAbkE/s1600/DSCF9623.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="322" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tYGPiyxcqf0/UTGyU1V-kTI/AAAAAAAABT8/wxdysuuAbkE/s400/DSCF9623.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">vegan products from Natural Mart, Hiroo</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">For a shop more like Jasons (in Taiwan), which sells a great range of vegan products, including Indian food and even Scheese (soy cheese from the UK) go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.national-azabu.com/" target="_blank">National Azuba</a>&nbsp;in Hiroo (walking distance from Natural Mart).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X3uvtS41x7U/UPDKT9Wm4QI/AAAAAAAABEA/Wu-1_MMDU-Q/s1600/DSCF9420.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X3uvtS41x7U/UPDKT9Wm4QI/AAAAAAAABEA/Wu-1_MMDU-Q/s400/DSCF9420.JPG" width="383" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">groceries from National Azuba, Roppongi </td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Very close to Natural Mart and National Azuba is Island Veggie, a vegetarian hawaiian cafe which specialises in Acaia Berry products, including smoothies and breakfast foods. It also serves a range of burgers and a few other basic items. Items with milk are clearly labelled 'LV' (lacto-veg). Many items contain honey, so if you don't eat it its important to tell them when you order. It's worth going here while in Hiroo to stock up on groceries. To find it, go to Hiroo Station, take Exit 2, walk around the corner and keep going until you see a starbucks opposite (on the right). Then take the small lane to your left, and it's a few steps down on the left.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bJ6xEeT0rJA/Ue-0g39kavI/AAAAAAAABb8/v6TYCHZNNtc/s1600/DSCF1757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="321" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bJ6xEeT0rJA/Ue-0g39kavI/AAAAAAAABb8/v6TYCHZNNtc/s640/DSCF1757.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A burger and fries: a typical delicious Island Veggie meal.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Naturalmart, National Azabu and Island Veggie are all a few minutes walk from Hiroo Station.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" height="320" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004e23fc6a8a2459b6a6&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.650313,139.722179&amp;spn=0.00279,0.005364&amp;z=17&amp;output=embed" width="500"></iframe><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><small>View <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004e23fc6a8a2459b6a6&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.650313,139.722179&amp;spn=0.00279,0.005364&amp;z=17&amp;source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Hiroo Japan Vegan</a> in a larger map</small></div><br /><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Warning</span></b> </span></small><br /><small><span style="font-size: small;">I previously recommended Natural House, from which I used to buy soy yoghurts. I have since learned, to my disgust, that these Soyafarm soy yoghurts I've been eating two years contain gelatine. This was a 'natural' soy yoghurt with a live culture, so I didn't even think to check for it. One can never be too careful in Japan!!</span>&nbsp;</small><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TEge8wpuOYE/U2SuYZGItZI/AAAAAAAACTw/A2Cz63S79Zo/s1600/soyafarm_soy_yoghurts.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TEge8wpuOYE/U2SuYZGItZI/AAAAAAAACTw/A2Cz63S79Zo/s1600/soyafarm_soy_yoghurts.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #990000;">Not Vegan: Soyafarm soy yoghurt contains GELATIN!</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><small>&nbsp;</small> <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-91825165846547122352013-07-19T06:47:00.002-07:002017-09-24T01:18:44.607-07:00Vegan & Vegan-friendly Restaurants in Tokyo<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><h3>Updated August, 2017 </h3><div style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />Japan is, more than anywhere else in Asia, somewhere that it's worth making the extra effort to visit wholly vegan restaurants, and even to plan a day sightseeing around meals. Staff at Most Japanese restaurants won't have any understanding of veganism, and even if they do few will be willing to adapt menus, making it virtually impossible to dine at 'normal' restaurants in Japan, and fortunately in Tokyo it's not necessary. Also, for many vegan restaurants in Japan, foreigners make up a significant proportion of customers, and given that few new vegan restaurants in Tokyo survive longer than a year, that extra time you spend may just make a difference to a restaurant staying in business or not. It's tragic how many former vegans start making "compromises" or become "flexible" in Japan, and I hope this page will make it that bit easier not to. <br /><br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Use HappyCow</h3>Restaurants come - and, unfortunately, close - faster than I can keep up with, however I try to keep the most important restaurants for short-term visitors her. So please use the&nbsp; Happycow&nbsp;<a href="http://www.happycow.net/android.php" target="_blank">Android App</a> to find nearby restaurants. I recommend keeping it set to vegan, as these restaurants are generally the best (even for vegetarians). As a nation Japanese are probably the most honest in the world, and it's rare to find vegan restaurants serving animal products, but of course it's always a good idea to keep an idea out for animal ingredients, especially fish products. <br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Summary</h2>In this post I aim to summarise the most popular vegetarian restaurants to foreign travellers, mostly by location. <br /><br />Categories of food are intended to be useful rather than definitive genres of food. Locations are likewise: they can be anything from a station to a city. <br />This page is always a work in progress. Please feel free to comment if you think I have missed something or something is out of date. <br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="key"> </a><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Key</h3>Prices include a drink and dessert if it would be normal to have one at such a meal. <br />$ = inexpensive ( &lt;1000 Yen)<br />$$ = midrange (1000 - 2000Yen) <br />$$$ = expensive (&lt; 3000 Yen)<br />* = exceptionally good food worth adding to your list.<br /><br /><br /><table border="1" style="width: 100%px;"><tbody><tr> <td style="text-align: center;"><b>Location</b></td> <td style="text-align: center;"><b>Visit for...</b></td> <td style="text-align: center;"><b>Authentic&nbsp; Japanese</b></td> <td style="text-align: center;"><b>Macrobiotic</b></td> <td style="text-align: center;"><b>Western / Fusion</b></td> <td style="text-align: center;"><b>Organic &amp; Raw&nbsp;&nbsp; </b></td> <td style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html" target="_blank">Indian </a></b></td> <td style="text-align: center;" width="62"><b>Other ethnic</b></td> <td style="text-align: center;" width="94"><b>A big, cheap&nbsp; meal</b></td> <td style="border: 1px solid rgb(0, 0, 0); padding: 0.04in;" width="53"><b>Open late</b></td> </tr><tr> <td><b>Tokyo Station</b></td> <td>Imperial Gardens</td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#tantan" target="">T's Tantan*</a></td> <td><br /></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#loving">Loving Hut*</a></td> <td><br /></td> <td><br /></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#pita">Pita the Great*</a>&nbsp; <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#buona">Tsuba Tsuba (Italian)$*</a></td> <td width="94"><br /></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#tantan">T's Tantan*</a></td> </tr><tr> <td><b>Shibuya</b></td> <td>Shibuya crossing, Yoyogi Park</td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#nagi">Nagi Shokudo</a></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#hannada">Hannada Rosso</a></td> <td width="49"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#umi">Umi Cafe</a> <br /><br /><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#lapaz" target="_blank">Organic Table by Lapaz*</a><br /><br /></td><td width="49"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#lapaz" target="_blank">Organic Table by Lapaz*</a></td><td><br /></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#nataraj" target="_blank">Nataraj Aoyama</a></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#kuumba">Kuumba Du Falafel (Middle East)</a><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#olu">Olu Olu Cafe (Hawaiian)</a></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html" target="_blank">Nataraj (lunch buffet)</a></td> <td><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td><b>Shinjuku</b></td> <td>Business district Shinjuku Metropolitan Govt Offices</td> <td width="39"><br /></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#journey">Ain Soph Journey</a></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#saishoku">Saishoku Kenbi</a><br /><br /><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#point">Point</a><br /><br /><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#journey">Ain Soph Journey</a> </td> <td><br /></td> <td><br /></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#buona">Buona Tsuba Tsuba (Italian)$*</a></td> <td><br /></td> <td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: none solid solid; border-width: medium 1px 1px; padding: 0in 0.04in 0.04in;" width="53"><br /></td> </tr><tr valign="TOP"> </tr><tr valign="TOP"> </tr><tr valign="TOP"> <td><b>Ginza</b></td> <td>Spending up!</td> <td><br /></td> <td><br /></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#ain">Ain Soph Ginza$</a></td> <td><br /></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#nataraj" target="_blank">Nataraj Ginza</a></td> <td><br /></td> <td width="94"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html" target="_blank">Nataraj&nbsp; (lunch </a></td> <td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: none solid solid; border-width: medium 1px 1px; padding: 0in 0.04in 0.04in;" width="53"><br /></td> </tr><tr valign="TOP"> <td><b>Roppongi</b></td> <td>“Going Out”</td> <td><br /></td> <td><br /></td> <td><br /></td> <td><br /></td> <td><br /></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#falafelbrothers" target="_blank">Falafel Brothers </a><br /><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#chien">Chien Fu (Taiwanese)</a></td> <td><br /></td> <td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: none solid solid; border-width: medium 1px 1px; padding: 0in 0.04in 0.04in;" width="53"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td><b>Eastern Tokyo</b></td> <td>Asakusa</td> <td><br /></td> <td><br /></td> <td><br /></td> <td><br /></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#govindas" target="_blank">Govinda's Edogawa (ISKCON Temple)</a></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#itsvegetable">It's Vegetable (Taiwanese) </a> </td> <td><br /></td> <td style="border-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-style: none solid solid; border-width: medium 1px 1px; padding: 0in 0.04in 0.04in;" width="53"><br /></td> </tr><tr> <td><b>Yokohama</b></td> <td>Yamashita Park; Chinatown</td> <td></td> <td></td> <td><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#t%27s">T's Restaurant*</a><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#phono">Phono Cafe</a>&nbsp;<a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#mana"></a></td><td><br /></td><td><br /></td><td><br /></td><td><br /></td><td><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><h2>&nbsp;</h2><h2>Tokyo Station, Imperial Gardens and Yasakuni Shrine&nbsp;</h2>This area will probably top any visitor's itinerary, and if you live in Tokyo you'll probably pass through Tokyo Station fairly often, so it's fortunate that there are two great vegan eateries nearby.<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Loving Hut</h3><div style="text-align: left;">Main Article: <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/japans-only-loving-hut-has-been-around.html" target="_blank">Tokyo Loving Hut</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"> <tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td>&nbsp;$$ </td> <td>Japanese, Taiwanese, International </td> <td>Mon-Fri: 11:30 - 17:00, Sat: 11:30 - 15:30</td> <td><a href="http://lovinghut.jp/" target="_blank">Website</a> </td> <td><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/loving-hut-tokyo-15591" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">〒101-0051 東京都千代田区神田神保町1-54岡田ビル２F<br />Okada Bldg 2F, 1-54, Kandajinbocho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0051 </td> <td colspan="2">Directions on <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/japans-only-loving-hut-has-been-around.html" target="_blank">Loving Hut page</a> . </td> </tr></tbody></table><br />While smaller than most Loving Huts around the world (a reality in a country in which very few people would ever consider visiting a vegan restaurant) the Tokyo Loving Hut serves a delicious a la carte menu and a great buffet on Saturday afternoons, which is in my opinion the best-value meal in Tokyo at 1500 Yen. See my <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/japans-only-loving-hut-has-been-around.html" target="_blank">featured article of the Loving Hut here</a>. They do a lot of vegan catering for events, and run cooking classes, so their hours change frequently, so it's always best to check their calendar <a href="http://lovinghut.jp/">here</a> (scroll down) or call them on 03-5577-6880. The Loving Hut has long been one of my favourite restaurants in Tokyo.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="546" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pFZ-7KfKn3E/Uoc-3qGhBdI/AAAAAAAACEg/6qCHyJO4y-A/s640/DSCF3375.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It can look nicer than this, but however it looks, this 1500 Yen buffet (Sat only) is Tokyo's best-value meal.</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#key">back to summary table</a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="tantan"> </a>T's Tantan (T’s たんたん)</h3><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$ </td> <td>ramen, curry </td> <td>07:00 - 23:00 <br />(LO: 22:30)</td> <td><a href="http://ts-restaurant.jp/tantan/" target="_blank">Website</a> </td> <td><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/ts-tantan-tokyo-29533" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">Inside the ticket gate of Tokyo Station.</td> <td colspan="2">Follow directions to Keiyo Line -&gt; Keiyo Food Street.&nbsp; </td> </tr></tbody></table><br /><br />When you're passing through Tokyo Station (eg for a Shinkansen ride, or for the Narita Express to or from Narita Airport) be sure to enjoy a bowl of ramen from&nbsp;<a href="http://ts-restaurant.jp/" target="_blank">T's Tantan</a>. It will probably the only place you'll find it vegan, since elsewhere in Japan the broth is virtually always made with fish flakes (called dashi) and perhaps other animal stock powders, though chefs at most restaurants won't think of this when they offer it to you in the same conversation that you explain you don't eat fish. T's Tantan promote veganism to their mostly non-vegan clientele in a gentle but powerful style with symbols and phrases (curiously in English) all over the walls, leaving diners with no doubt that they are enjoying a plant based meal. It's inside the ticket gate (but not the Shinkansen gate), so don't exit the station. Head towards the Keio Line, and then Keio Street (an underground food "street"). If you happen to come from outside the station (which seems unlikely) you'll need to buy a ticket into the station.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P0ZX41CwNLw/UNA_HI__8wI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/8Iz2cHLnz0Y/s1600/DSCF7779.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-P0ZX41CwNLw/UNA_HI__8wI/AAAAAAAAA0Q/8Iz2cHLnz0Y/s320/DSCF7779.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">a bowl of ramen from T's Tantan, Tokyo Station</td></tr></tbody></table><br />While they clearly aim to serve vegan versions of trusted traditional Japanese favourites to non-vegan passers-by, their menu is always expanding, and I particularly like their authentic Thai Massaman Curry (summer only)! They have also added soy pudding (better than it might sound) on weekdays (lunchtime only).<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v8YkkMc36mY/UcvLuKRvGlI/AAAAAAAABWk/OpI0vScP2Pk/s1600/TsTantan_Massamancurry_June2013.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v8YkkMc36mY/UcvLuKRvGlI/AAAAAAAABWk/OpI0vScP2Pk/s640/TsTantan_Massamancurry_June2013.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Thai Massaman curry, &nbsp;soy pudding and orange juice from T's Tantan - a great lunch for 1500 Yen.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Pita the Great</h3></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$ </td> <td>donor kebabs </td> <td>call 03-55630851</td> <td>no website </td> <td><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/pita-the-great-tokyo-6316" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">〒107-0052 Tokyo, Minato, Akasaka, 2 Chome−11−7, ATT新館2階</td> <td colspan="2">Tameikesan-No Station, Exit 12<br />Walk clockwise around the ATT Building and follow signs and stairs from the back. &nbsp; </td> </tr></tbody></table></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WU5zv9k2OD0/WZvTnJI7LII/AAAAAAAAF5c/SYHfD3_cuYUcHL62oTNyQ7X07ZVcv7kfwCLcBGAs/s1600/Pita%2BThe%2BGreat%2BFalafel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WU5zv9k2OD0/WZvTnJI7LII/AAAAAAAAF5c/SYHfD3_cuYUcHL62oTNyQ7X07ZVcv7kfwCLcBGAs/s400/Pita%2BThe%2BGreat%2BFalafel.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pita the Great's pitas taste better than they look. </td></tr></tbody></table><br />Pita the Great is run by a friendly, eccentric Israeli man who has been serving up&nbsp; authentic Israeli falafel sandwiches or decades. However, as the legend he is he doesn't need to be friendly because being yelled at occasionally doesn't put his regulars off. Neither does he need to present his food well - a soggy mess still tastes good. Neither does he need to clean his shop, which has flour and peeling paint everywhere. Actually, he doesn't even need to open his cafe at all, since he supplies his famous breads and dips to upmarket supermarkets in Tokyo. While he won't confirm his hours, and doesn't much appreciate calls (which might wake him up when he takes a nap on the floor of his cafe - while it's still open) the word on the street is that he opens most days from 12:00 - 13:00. If you don't find him open there are plenty of other restaurants a short subway ride away. Or if all this seems like too much, there are other vegan falafel restaurants in Tokyo.&nbsp; </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;"></h2><h2 style="text-align: left;">Shibuya &amp; Harajuku</h2><br /><iframe height="480" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=zykHwWQV1xf8.kWO5iguYsE6s" width="100%"></iframe> <br /><br /><br />Shibuya is the home of the young, fashion-conscious crowd in Tokyo. If you're visiting Tokyo, you'll visit Shibuya, probably to see the famous Shibuya Crossing, and the surge of humanity that through this famous intersection each time the pedestrian lights turn green.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QSeqCUB8gQ0/WcdmO3xPbhI/AAAAAAAAGGE/WN2Cyn6zmcQPGAw-nBV7J6_CJTiOZonXgCLcBGAs/s1600/Shibuya%2BCrossing.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="425" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QSeqCUB8gQ0/WcdmO3xPbhI/AAAAAAAAGGE/WN2Cyn6zmcQPGAw-nBV7J6_CJTiOZonXgCLcBGAs/s640/Shibuya%2BCrossing.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />As well as the famous Shibuya Crossing, be sure to take a stroll through Yoyogi Koen (Yoyogi Park), one of my favourite places in Tokyo.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xhb5KD0Tsjs/UNkaN0DztyI/AAAAAAAAA5w/yB40DMJ1ABg/s1600/DSCF7678.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xhb5KD0Tsjs/UNkaN0DztyI/AAAAAAAAA5w/yB40DMJ1ABg/s400/DSCF7678.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Yoyogi Park is like Tokyo's backyard, where people come to stroll, jog, picnic, play music, kick a ball around, or rehearse theatrical performances.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="umi"> </a> <br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Umi Cafe</h3><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>Western</td> <td>Make bookings through Facebook</td> <td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/umi-caf%C3%A9-1584930211721727/?rf=636007869838388" target="_blank">Facebook</a> </td> <td><a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/umi-cafe-tokyo-89184" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">宇田川町33-13 楠原ビル</td> <td colspan="2"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E5%AE%87%E7%94%B0%E5%B7%9D%E7%94%BA33-13%20%E6%A5%A0%E5%8E%9F%E3%83%93%E3%83%AB" target="_blank">directions</a><br />Take the elevator to the 5th floor. </td> </tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ox9V6FCYaPg/WZvVuC4W35I/AAAAAAAAF5o/CwA7T2EXuZM8ZkVDqRrHn4KHwx-y3USbgCLcBGAs/s1600/Umi%2BCafe%2BDinner%2BSet%2BAug%2B17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ox9V6FCYaPg/WZvVuC4W35I/AAAAAAAAF5o/CwA7T2EXuZM8ZkVDqRrHn4KHwx-y3USbgCLcBGAs/s400/Umi%2BCafe%2BDinner%2BSet%2BAug%2B17.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br />First there was the Vegan Healing Cafe about ten minutes' walk from Shibuya Station, and after it sadly closed its doors Hang Out opened in a more convenient location, with some of the same staff. After its equally sad demise Umi has opened as the go to vegan restaurant for a nice meal out within walking distance of Shibuya Station.&nbsp; Set meals are fairly standard Japanese fusion fare, but good good value at around 1500 Yen for this prime location, and their desserts are excellent. When it's open it's open late. <br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UEogtOuWPj8/WZvWMAaqcNI/AAAAAAAAF5s/KnFfqyQB1Q8cC6fobGl6y2fTi8dcRGVsACLcBGAs/s1600/Umi%2BCafe%2BDessert%2BAugust%2B2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UEogtOuWPj8/WZvWMAaqcNI/AAAAAAAAF5s/KnFfqyQB1Q8cC6fobGl6y2fTi8dcRGVsACLcBGAs/s400/Umi%2BCafe%2BDessert%2BAugust%2B2017.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">waffles from Umi Cafe</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="nagi"> </a><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Nagi Shokudo</h3><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>Japanese / fusion </td> <td>Mon - Sun12:00 - 16:00 (LO: 15:00)<br />Mon-Sat:18:00 - 23:00 (LO: 22:30)</td> <td><a href="http://nagishokudo.com/" target="_blank">website</a> </td> <td><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/nagi-shokudo-tokyo-13435" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3"><span class="_Xbe">〒150-0032 Tokyo, Shibuya, Uguisudanicho, 15−10</span></td> <td colspan="2">550m walk south of Shibuya Station.<br />&nbsp;<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E3%80%92150-0032%20Tokyo,%20Shibuya,%20Uguisudanicho,%2015%E2%88%9210" target="_blank">directions</a></td> </tr></tbody></table><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJST1wvgoY4/UNhhdPkw2iI/AAAAAAAAA5M/TtCpLil4OpY/s1600/DSCF7051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FJST1wvgoY4/UNhhdPkw2iI/AAAAAAAAA5M/TtCpLil4OpY/s320/DSCF7051.JPG" width="318" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">Nagi's lunch sets are among the best value in Shibuya. </td></tr></tbody></table><br />"Nagi" as it's known by its loyal fan base, probably serves the most authentic Japanese vegan food in Shibuya, and the set meals are particularly good, with so many different foods to try. It's doesn't have the most beautiful interior (so perhaps not one for a business lunch) and it can be a bit difficult to find without a smartphone, but such great Japanese food at an all-vegan restaurant makes it well worth the trouble and the 5-10 minute walk (from Shibuya Station) to get there.&lt; <br /><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#key">back to summary table</a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="lapaz"></a>Organic Table by Lapaz</h3><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>Western</td> <td>Tue - Sun<br />11:00 - 19:00 (LO 18:00)</td> <td><a href="http://www.lapaz-tokyo.com/pages/353897/access" target="_blank">website</a> </td> <td><a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/organic-table-by-lapaz-tokyo-53680" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">東京都渋谷区神宮前3-38-11 原宿ニューロイヤルビル1F15号</td> <td colspan="2">5 minutes from Gaienmae Station <br /><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E6%9D%B1%E4%BA%AC%E9%83%BD%E6%B8%8B%E8%B0%B7%E5%8C%BA%E7%A5%9E%E5%AE%AE%E5%89%8D3-38-11%20%E5%8E%9F%E5%AE%BF%E3%83%8B%E3%83%A5%E3%83%BC%E3%83%AD%E3%82%A4%E3%83%A4%E3%83%AB%E3%83%93%E3%83%AB1F15%E5%8F%B7" target="_blank">directions</a> </td> </tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--4q3Gej5XYs/WZoXBunPBvI/AAAAAAAAF4U/hjAoynxcBQsmpxtug6jmc9N8y4p0OjMbQCLcBGAs/s1600/Organic%2BTable%2Bby%2BLaplaz%2BSoy%2BMeat%2BMeal%2BJune%2B2017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--4q3Gej5XYs/WZoXBunPBvI/AAAAAAAAF4U/hjAoynxcBQsmpxtug6jmc9N8y4p0OjMbQCLcBGAs/s640/Organic%2BTable%2Bby%2BLaplaz%2BSoy%2BMeat%2BMeal%2BJune%2B2017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />It's clear that the owners of Shibuya newest addition to the vegan scene, Lapaz, are keen on promoting healthy, organic, affordable cuisine. They offer a range of delicious and filling meal sets for around 1500 Yen, and also some sumptuous desserts and baked goods, which can also be taken out. If you have just one meal in Shibuya I would have it here. <br /><br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Kuumba Du Falafel</h3><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>falafel </td> <td>hours vary - call first<br />03 6416-8396</td> <td><a href="http://www.kuumbainternational.com/shop/" target="_blank">website</a> (not much here) </td> <td><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/kuumba-du-falafel-tokyo-29851" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">渋谷区神泉町23−1</td> <td colspan="2">15 minute uphill walk from Shibuya Station, Exit 3<br /><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E6%B8%8B%E8%B0%B7%E5%8C%BA%E7%A5%9E%E6%B3%89%E7%94%BA23%E2%88%921" target="_blank">directions</a> </td> </tr></tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"></div><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fMZA7z8URIA/UI_L57-4r9I/AAAAAAAAAxw/RieGzTYTH0I/s1600/DSCF7296.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fMZA7z8URIA/UI_L57-4r9I/AAAAAAAAAxw/RieGzTYTH0I/s320/DSCF7296.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;">Kuumba Du Falafel even serve Phoenix drinks from Auckland.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Kuumba sed to be one of my favourite places to go for a simple, delicious meal near Shibuya, however over the last year or two I've found that the standard has slipped somewhat, and this is confirmed in its recent reviews by reviewers I know and trust. If you're in the area and really want falafel it's worth considering, but I'd make Falafel Brothers a much higher priority.&nbsp;Pita the Great's falafel may be even better, if you strike gold and find it open.&nbsp; For more info see my <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.tw/p/falafel-in-tokyo.html" target="_blank">page of falafel</a> here.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#key">back to summary table</a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="hannada"></a>Hannada Rosso </h3><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$ </td> <td>cuisine </td> <td>hours</td> <td>website </td> <td>Happycow </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">〒</td> <td colspan="2">directions</td> </tr></tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"></div><br />If you're hungry after a stroll through Yoyogi Park and/or Harajuku, head to the macrobiotic restaurant Hannada Rosso. While it's a perfectly delicious burger meal offered by friendly and welcoming staff, it's little different to any decent burger you'll eat anywhere, so it's not somewhere to plan to eat at. It's just where I go when hunger kicks in after an afternoon at Yoyogi Park.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G1wqynux5Z0/UNkc1Rp5TzI/AAAAAAAAA6M/FkZjyzlNpq4/s1600/DSCF7080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="387" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G1wqynux5Z0/UNkc1Rp5TzI/AAAAAAAAA6M/FkZjyzlNpq4/s320/DSCF7080.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">a burger from Hanada Rosso in Harajuku (near Yoyogi Park)</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#key">back to summary table</a></div><br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Olu Olu Cafe </h3><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>cuisine </td> <td>hours</td> <td>website </td> <td>Happycow </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">〒</td> <td colspan="2">directions</td> </tr></tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"></div><br />Also a short hop on the Den-en Toshi line from Shibuya is the Hawaiian-themed, all-vegan <a href="http://ameblo.jp/oluolucafe/" target="_blank">Olu Olu Cafe</a>.&nbsp; Delicious, inexpensive Hawaiian / fusion food is served by a friendly couple, in a pleasant, stylish Hawaiian-themed interior. Its vegan owners want to present great food in a friendly, welcoming Hawaiian atmosphere, and they've certainly succeeded in both. This is the place to go for something different in this part of Tokyo, or just somewhere to head for what will likely be one of your best meals in Tokyo.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w4D3NkOI6xQ/VHV1KpeZzyI/AAAAAAAADa8/DGQyUUtDHC8/s1600/Olu%2BOlu%2BCafe%2B2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w4D3NkOI6xQ/VHV1KpeZzyI/AAAAAAAADa8/DGQyUUtDHC8/s1600/Olu%2BOlu%2BCafe%2B2014.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olu Olu Cafe near Shibuya, Tokyo&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table></div><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Shinjuku</h2>Shinjuku is like a little slice of life in Tokyo, with business and entertainment a plenty. It's well worth a stroll around, and a trip up the Shinjuku Metropolitan Towers for the view (though Tokyo Sky Tree is probably better). I used to recommend the Loving Hut for this area, however it recently moved to Jimbocho (perfect for visiting the Imperial Gardens, Yasakuni Shrine etc) so I need to recommend other places in Shinkuku. This blog is always a work in progress...<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Point </h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5iAkBiQ8Z3k/WZoZJUS-LgI/AAAAAAAAF4g/4Q9sqLpbJjIUWhIMEG7Qp2mar24AUk-YwCLcBGAs/s1600/Point%2BMeal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5iAkBiQ8Z3k/WZoZJUS-LgI/AAAAAAAAF4g/4Q9sqLpbJjIUWhIMEG7Qp2mar24AUk-YwCLcBGAs/s400/Point%2BMeal.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>fusion</td> <td>hours</td> <td><a href="http://organicpoint.blog83.fc2.com/" target="_blank">website</a> </td> <td><a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/point-tokyo-23841" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">東京都新宿区若松町28-20サンフラワービル１F</td> <td colspan="2"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E6%9D%B1%E4%BA%AC%E9%83%BD%E6%96%B0%E5%AE%BF%E5%8C%BA%E8%8B%A5%E6%9D%BE%E7%94%BA28-20%E3%82%B5%E3%83%B3%E3%83%95%E3%83%A9%E3%83%AF%E3%83%BC%E3%83%93%E3%83%AB" target="_blank">directions</a></td> </tr></tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"></div><br />This tiny establishment, run by one friendly and talented chef who also doubles as waiter and dishwasher, and is one of my favourite restaurants in Tokyo. The menu changes daily, but set meals are always fresh and delicious, prices are very reasonable, and the restaurant exudes a peaceful atmosphere. Reservations can only be made in Japanese, so it's best to just turn up and hope for a table, but if you have time it's worth the risk and the walk.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#key">back to summary table</a></div><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="journey"> </a> <br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Ain Soph Journey</h3><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>fusion</td> <td>Mon - Sat: 11:30 - 23:00<br />Sun: 11:30 - 22:00</td> <td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ainsoph.Journey" target="_blank">Facebook</a></td> <td><a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/ainsophjourney-tokyo-36193" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3"><span class="_50f4">新宿3-8-9</span></td> <td colspan="2">Shinjuku-Sanchome Station, Exit C5.&nbsp; <br /><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E6%96%B0%E5%AE%BF3-8-9" target="_blank">directions</a></td> </tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ORGXNOn0fE/WZveSYtuEMI/AAAAAAAAF58/CL7rb0-rZTs5NkHtxenH1E3EnOjzIavHwCLcBGAs/s1600/Ain%2BSoph%2BJourney%2BBurger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5ORGXNOn0fE/WZveSYtuEMI/AAAAAAAAF58/CL7rb0-rZTs5NkHtxenH1E3EnOjzIavHwCLcBGAs/s400/Ain%2BSoph%2BJourney%2BBurger.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />The newest addition to this Tokyo survivor chain is also my favourite. Food is simpler and less expensive than at their Ginza branch, but (being Shinjuku) a little healthier and more upmarket than most vegan fast food in Japan. If you're looking for a good, quick lunch in Shinjuku then this is the place. It's also good for introducing vegan food to non-vegans.<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="saishoku"></a>Saishoku Kenbi</h3><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>cuisine </td> <td>hours</td> <td>website </td> <td>Happycow </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">〒</td> <td colspan="2"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/" target="_blank">directions</a></td> </tr></tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"></div><br />North of Shinjuku in Shin Okubo (Korea town) is&nbsp;<a href="http://www.daisho-kikaku.com/" target="_blank">Saishoku Kenbi</a>. They used to do an incredible lunch buffet, but they're still worth visiting for the&nbsp;<i>a la carte</i>&nbsp;menu. While they do serve egg and dairy products, they have plenty of vegan options.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VX46FZTI7Pk/UNkqaLGkPCI/AAAAAAAAA7w/U4E-E9hULws/s1600/DSCF7071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VX46FZTI7Pk/UNkqaLGkPCI/AAAAAAAAA7w/U4E-E9hULws/s320/DSCF7071.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">a set lunch at Saishoku Kenbi</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#key">back to summary table</a></div><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="rejuve"> </a><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Ueno &amp; Akihabara</h2><h3 style="text-align: left;">Komaki Syokudo</h3><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="komaki"></a><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SFVdRFuO0bo/VHWBYdsLNoI/AAAAAAAADbw/iSz_a3Nd1jc/s1600/DSCF0486.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SFVdRFuO0bo/VHWBYdsLNoI/AAAAAAAADbw/iSz_a3Nd1jc/s1600/DSCF0486.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lunch set from Komaki Syokudo</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="komaki"></a><br />This place boasts itself as selling Shojin Ryori, traditional Japanese temple food. Traditionally such food is very expensive (at least 5000 Yen p/p) but an amazing experience, which should be enjoyed at least once while in Japan, preferably in Kyoto. However Komaki Syokudo's sets are surprisingly similar, with the beauty,&nbsp; simplicity and perfection of Shojin Ryori for a fraction of the price, at around 1000 Yen for a basic set. If you're shopping or window shopping in Akihabara then this is the obvious place to come for lunch.<br /><br />While its Happycow location is correct, Komaki Syokudo has all the ingredients of a place hard to find: it's in one of many commercial buildings around a busy hub, surrounded by so many skyscrapers that GPS doesn't always work so well. It's inside the Charbara department store, under the tracks and opposite the UDX building. I forgot to note this down, so please let me know if there is a specific exit number - arigatou! When you enter it's at the far right corner.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-56_4wUXeJPk/VHWGWZmYq2I/AAAAAAAADcA/_uHjGpYPpds/s1600/Chabara%2Bfor%2BKomaki%2BSyokudo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-56_4wUXeJPk/VHWGWZmYq2I/AAAAAAAADcA/_uHjGpYPpds/s1600/Chabara%2Bfor%2BKomaki%2BSyokudo.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Komaki Syokudo is in the Chabara Centre.</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">Future Food Cafe Restaurant Tubu Tubu</h3><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>Western (grains)</td> <td>Mon: 11:30-18:00<br />Tue: closed<br />Wed- Sun: 11:30-22:00<br />LO: 1 hour before closing.</td> <td><a href="http://b-tubutubu.com/" target="_blank">website</a> </td> <td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/tubutubucafe" target="_blank">Facebook</a></td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">東京都新宿区弁天町143-5</td> <td colspan="2"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E6%9D%B1%E4%BA%AC%E9%83%BD%E6%96%B0%E5%AE%BF%E5%8C%BA%E5%BC%81%E5%A4%A9%E7%94%BA143-5" target="_blank">directions</a></td></tr></tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rTSkIG51Q2g/WZob4EsxLAI/AAAAAAAAF40/Mss1jOhpoyABzxRSTLrbUY24YkDeFHOXwCLcBGAs/s1600/Tuba%2BTuba%2BBurger%2B2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rTSkIG51Q2g/WZob4EsxLAI/AAAAAAAAF40/Mss1jOhpoyABzxRSTLrbUY24YkDeFHOXwCLcBGAs/s640/Tuba%2BTuba%2BBurger%2B2017.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />&nbsp; <br />Tubu Tubu is in between Ueno and Shinjuku, and is well worth the visit from either of these (or from Tokyo Station). Somewhat expensive with small portions, it uses millet and other healthy grains to create delicious vegan Italian food. While it recently merged with the cafe Future Food, the restaurant has been operating at this location and with the philosophy for several years, making it one of the oldest vegetarian (now vegan) restaurants in Tokyo.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#key">back to summary table</a></div><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Ginza</h2><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="ain"></a>Ain Soph Ginza</h3><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$$ </td> <td>Western</td> <td>11:30-22:00</td> <td><a href="http://ain-soph.jp/" target="_blank">website</a> </td> <td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ainsoph.ginza" target="_blank">Facebook</a></td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3"><span class="_50f4">東京都中央区銀座4丁目12-1</span></td> <td colspan="2"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E6%9D%B1%E4%BA%AC%E9%83%BD%E4%B8%AD%E5%A4%AE%E5%8C%BA%E9%8A%80%E5%BA%A74%E4%B8%81%E7%9B%AE12-1" target="_blank">directions</a></td> </tr></tbody></table><br /><br />If you're in the mood for spending up, or watching others spend up, head to Ginza, and while&nbsp; there, try a delicious meal from&nbsp;Ain Soph. From 2PM - 5PM on Saturday, and midday to 5PM (6PM April to September) on Sunday the main streets are&nbsp;<a href="http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3005.html" target="_blank">closed to cars and become pedestrian zones</a>.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XU41d8WnLMg/UNknY1zSwlI/AAAAAAAAA7U/r8BrFHhpfAg/s1600/DSCF7638.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XU41d8WnLMg/UNknY1zSwlI/AAAAAAAAA7U/r8BrFHhpfAg/s400/DSCF7638.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#key">back to summary table</a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="nataraj"></a> </h3><h2 style="text-align: left;">Roppongi</h2>If you're 'going out' in Tokyo, you're probably going to Roppongi. It's also close to the gaudy old Tokyo Tower, now dwarfed in height (but perhaps not in vibe) by the Shinjuku Metropolitan Government Buildings and of course the new Tokyo Skytree. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="falafelbrothers"></a> <h2 style="text-align: left;">Falafel Brothers (Roppongi)</h2><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>falafel</td> <td>Mon - Sat: 11:00 - 22:00, closed Sun</td> <td><a href="http://www.falafelbrothers.jp/" target="_blank">website </a></td> <td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/FALAFELBROTHERSTOKYO/" target="_blank">Facebook</a></td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3"><span class="section-info-text">5 Chome-1-10 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tōkyō-to, 106-0032</span></td> <td colspan="2"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/5%20Chome-1-10%20Roppongi,%20Minato-ku,%20T%C5%8Dky%C5%8D-to%20106-0032" target="_blank">directions</a></td> </tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03-qwzOhTRg/WcdkPAy7zVI/AAAAAAAAGF4/smx9V7yKnwwFBCAA0SPdeiB12MEY5pBlgCLcBGAs/s1600/Falafel%2BBrothers%2BTokyo%2BRice%2BMeal%2BJune%2B2017.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-03-qwzOhTRg/WcdkPAy7zVI/AAAAAAAAGF4/smx9V7yKnwwFBCAA0SPdeiB12MEY5pBlgCLcBGAs/s640/Falafel%2BBrothers%2BTokyo%2BRice%2BMeal%2BJune%2B2017.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br />If you need a quick work lunch, a bite to eat before a night out or just want great falafel from an all-vegan establishment, these brothers offer some of Tokyo's best falafel. There is space for one small group to eat in the restaurant, but you'll need to strike gold to find it empty. Otherwise Roppongi West Oark is a five-minute walk away (<a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/Roppongi%20West%20Park,%207%20Chome-17-8%20Roppongi,%20%E6%B8%AF%E5%8C%BA%20Tokyo%20106-0032" target="_blank">directions from your location</a>).&nbsp; <br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="chien"> </a>&nbsp;</h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">Chien Fu</h3><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>Taiwanese </td> <td>11:00 - 14:00<br />17:00 - 20:00</td> <td><a href="http://www.nakaichifu.jp/">website</a> </td> <td><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews.php?id=36159" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3"><span class="_Xbe">〒106-0031 Tokyo, Minato, Nishiazabu, 3 Chome−1−22, Sai Building</span></td> <td colspan="2"><a href="http://〒106-0031 Tokyo, Minato, Nishiazabu, 3 Chome−1−22" target="_blank">Directions</a> </td> </tr></tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6u9aNl72Uxw/VjcHByxhsXI/AAAAAAAAFNY/d8rO_TbhxE0/s1600/Chien%2BFu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6u9aNl72Uxw/VjcHByxhsXI/AAAAAAAAFNY/d8rO_TbhxE0/s640/Chien%2BFu.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Korean Kimchi and as Taiwanese as it can get: Ma Po Tofu</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br />This branch of&nbsp;Chien-Fu, a chain of Taiwanese vegetarian restaurants, is the place to eat in Roppongi. I recommend staying away from <a href="http://vegantaiwan.blogspot.tw/2009/10/fake-meat-update-or-lack-of.html" target="_blank">fake meats</a>, as they often contain dairy and/or egg and in Taiwan (where many are made) they have been found to contain real meat, but this still leaves plenty of options.&nbsp; <br />&nbsp; <br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"></h3><h2>Eastern Tokyo&nbsp;</h2>Eastern Tokyo, much like most of Tokyo's sprawl, offers little to the traveller, but it's home to one of Japan's oldest Taiwanese restaurants, It's Vegetable, and one of its best Cafes, Sasaya Cafe. <br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Sasaya Cafe</h3><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>macrobiotic / fusion<br />ion</td> <td>hours</td> <td><a href="http://www.sasaya-cafe.com/" target="_blank">website </a></td> <td><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/sasaya-cafe-tokyo-40643" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3"><span class="_Xbe">〒130-0003 Tokyo, Sumida, 横川1-1-10</span></td> <td colspan="2"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E3%80%92130-0003%20Tokyo,%20Sumida,%20%E6%A8%AA%E5%B7%9D1-1-10" target="_blank">directions</a></td> </tr></tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2AK38vWYaQA/VHV-nlHug5I/AAAAAAAADbk/irK2GMVFFuA/s1600/Sasaya%2BCafe%2BTempeh%2BSet.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="481" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2AK38vWYaQA/VHV-nlHug5I/AAAAAAAADbk/irK2GMVFFuA/s640/Sasaya%2BCafe%2BTempeh%2BSet.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tempeh Curry Set</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Sasaya Cafe is one of Tokyo's top vegan cafes. Located adjacent a pleasant city park (but without much of a view of it) it serves delicious all-vegan food (the odd dish contains honey) in a spacious, mostly wooden interior. Prices are very reasonable, at around 1000 Yen for a simple set meal. They also serve some delicious baked goods, and a natural cola. If you want to hang out before or after visiting the Sky Tree, perhaps while you sit out the wait for your turn to queue, then this is the place to come.<br /><br /><br /><iframe height="300" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=zykHwWQV1xf8.kJAjSvWTVeFU" width="100%"></iframe> <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="itsvegetable"></a><br /><br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">North-Western Tokyo</h2>This suburban sprawl has many good (mostly small, western/fusion) restaurants, many of which are not far from central Tokyo and are worth the effort to get to them, though I must admit that living in Yokohama it's so far away from here that I rarely do make it there.<br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="vesperas"> </a><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="vesperas"></a> <br /><br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="rappa"></a></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="primeur"></a>La Table de Primeur</h3><div style="text-align: left;"></div><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>cuisine </td> <td>Tue - Sat 11:30 - 17:00</td> <td><br /></td> <td><a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/la-table-du-primeur-tokyo-35472" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">〒107-0052 東京都港区赤坂3-9-16 松葉ビルB1F</td> <td colspan="2"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E3%80%92107-0052%20%E6%9D%B1%E4%BA%AC%E9%83%BD%E6%B8%AF%E5%8C%BA%E8%B5%A4%E5%9D%823-9-16%20%E6%9D%BE%E8%91%89%E3%83%93%E3%83%ABB1F" target="_blank">directions</a></td> </tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MM8aRG9BZLQ/VUztVzKk5SI/AAAAAAAAEN8/iQJdUQfaIto/s1600/Le%2BTable%2BDe%2BPrimeur.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="378" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MM8aRG9BZLQ/VUztVzKk5SI/AAAAAAAAEN8/iQJdUQfaIto/s640/Le%2BTable%2BDe%2BPrimeur.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Tokyo's first raw-food restaurant has been around for years. Located in a pleasant suburb, not far from Mejiro Station, La Table offers a delicious and surprisingly filling raw meal for 2-3000 Yen.&nbsp; It's all vegan except for possibly honey. <br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="deva"></a>Deva Deva Cafe</h3><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td><td>Western / Fusion</td> <td>11:30 - 17:30 <br />(every day)</td> <td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/devadevacafe/" target="_blank">Facebook</a></td> <td><a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/devadeva-cafe-tokyo-5939" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">〒180-0004 武蔵野市吉祥寺本町2-14-7 吉祥ビル2F</td> <td colspan="2"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E3%80%92180-0004%20%E6%AD%A6%E8%94%B5%E9%87%8E%E5%B8%82%E5%90%89%E7%A5%A5%E5%AF%BA%E6%9C%AC%E7%94%BA2-14-7%20%E5%90%89%E7%A5%A5%E3%83%93%E3%83%AB2F" target="_blank">directions</a></td> </tr></tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eAPRdtZX7EU/VaqS3s6SffI/AAAAAAAAEnM/jd4E9iKYT-E/s1600/Deva%2BDeva%2BCafe%2Bburger%2Bpizza.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eAPRdtZX7EU/VaqS3s6SffI/AAAAAAAAEnM/jd4E9iKYT-E/s640/Deva%2BDeva%2BCafe%2Bburger%2Bpizza.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />Deva Deva cafe has been one of Tokyo's most popular and famous vegetarian hangouts for years. There are plenty of vegan options, including some of the best pizzas and burgers in Tokyo. <br /><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Yokohama</h2>If you're headed to Yokohama (for Chinatown and Yamashita Park, or for the Yokohama anti-fur march, 2017 Vegan Festival) it's best to eat before you come, since there are no vegetarian restaurants in the city. The best option is to stop at T's Restaurant (Jiyugaoka Station) if coming on the Tokyo Toyoko / Minatomirai Line, and Phono Kafe (Kamata Station) if coming on the JR Line. .&nbsp; If you do get stuck for food in Yokohama, the best option is the Indian restaurant&nbsp;<a href="http://www.i-sitar.com/en/info.html" target="_blank">Sitar</a>&nbsp;(close to Chinatown).&nbsp;The owner, Kumar (who is almost always there) understands what vegans can and can't eat and he (or his staff) will make sure that your meal is vegan. If you're taking the Shinkansen, Maharaja Indian restaurant (chain) on the 9th floor of Shin-Yokohama Station (Cubic Plaza) does vegetarian dishes (including South Indian food) and the helpful manager is always happy to explain what can be made vegan. <br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="t's"> </a><br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">T's Restaurant</h3><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"> </a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"> </a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"> </a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"></a><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>fusion</td> <td>11:00 - 22:00</td> <td><a href="https://www.facebook.com/tsrestaurant25" target="_blank">Facebook</a></td> <td><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"></a><a href="https://www.happycow.net/reviews/ts-restaurant-tokyo-28740" target="_blank">Happycow </a></td></tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td colspan="3"><span class="_50f4">自由が丘2-9-6 B1F</span></td> <td colspan="2">Jiyugaoka Station Station<br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"></a><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E8%87%AA%E7%94%B1%E3%81%8C%E4%B8%982-9-6/" target="_blank">directions</a></td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://自由が丘2-9-6/" target="_blank"><br /></a><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M0bF7hZ5gBU/WZvh8llKm8I/AAAAAAAAF6Q/VzvLXLqaYIAD4ojimWGIW0yLoPkn63rhwCLcBGAs/s1600/Ts%2BSalad.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="426" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M0bF7hZ5gBU/WZvh8llKm8I/AAAAAAAAF6Q/VzvLXLqaYIAD4ojimWGIW0yLoPkn63rhwCLcBGAs/s640/Ts%2BSalad.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee;">T's serve the best salads in Tokyo. <u><br /></u></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br />T's Restaurant is the owned by the same company as the more-famous T's Tantan, and is in Tokyo but on the way (Jiyugaoka Station on the Tokyu Toyoko / Minatomirai line to Yokohama). It serves excellent fusion cuisine, and is perhaps worth a visit even if you're not on your way to Yokohama.&nbsp; The owner chose to serve food which she liked to eat at home with her family, and given its popularity she's obviously not the only oe who likes her version of healthy fusion cuisine. Note that the restaurant is in the basement, with stairs leading down from the street.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n0_K-YXHkrs/WZvg7lgD_WI/AAAAAAAAF6I/K6UV0StdIz4UXhjYW6NyFoa2c44XUItfQCLcBGAs/s1600/Ts%2BDessert.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-n0_K-YXHkrs/WZvg7lgD_WI/AAAAAAAAF6I/K6UV0StdIz4UXhjYW6NyFoa2c44XUItfQCLcBGAs/s400/Ts%2BDessert.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#key">back to summary table</a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="phono"> </a>Phono Kafe</h3><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>macrobiotic, Japanese, fusion</td> <td>Fri-Mon 11:30 - 19:30 <br />(LO: 19:00)</td> <td><a href="http://phonokafe.org/" target="_blank">website</a> </td> <td><a href="http://www.happycow.net/reviews/phono-kafe-tokyo-46073" target="_blank">Happycow</a> </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">大田区西蒲田5-11-1 宮沢ビル1階</td> <td colspan="2"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/%E5%A4%A7%E7%94%B0%E5%8C%BA%E8%A5%BF%E8%92%B2%E7%94%B05-11-1%20%E5%AE%AE%E6%B2%A2%E3%83%93%E3%83%AB1%E9%9A%8E" target="_blank">directions</a></td> </tr></tbody></table><div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"></div><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KE3ECWfkSmM/VHV7qKajtfI/AAAAAAAADbY/NvxLJ4XdZPE/s1600/DSCF0146.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KE3ECWfkSmM/VHV7qKajtfI/AAAAAAAADbY/NvxLJ4XdZPE/s640/DSCF0146.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Set meals at Phono Cafe are excellent value at around 1000 Yen.</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Phono Cafe is a charming little a-la-carte restaurant in Kamata (Tokyo), which is easily accessible from central Tokyo and Yokohama. It's close to Haneda Airport, so this is the logical stop before or after a flight. It's a very pleasant and interesting 15 minute walk from Keikyu Kamata Station (a short ride from the airport), mostly along a river and through a quaint little suburb. It may of course be necessary to taxi if coming with luggage, or leave it in a locker. It's closer to Kamata Station (for Yokohama or Tokyo) but not worth changing trains if coming from the airport.<br /><br />Phono Kafe, but it's just a great restaurant in every measure: food is fresh, healthy and delicious and prices are very low for such good food, with some set meals under 1000 Yen. Its pleasant dining area includes western style tables, a small Japanese-style private dining room and bar-side seating. The long-time vegan owner is friendly and helpful, and while the menu is in Japanese, you really can't go wrong with it all being such great vegan food. Language shouldn't be a problem, and if you don't understand just order a set meal.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe height="300" src="https://mapsengine.google.com/map/embed?mid=zAhFEuuKIoHU.ko8PxLaitdBE" width="100%"></iframe></div><br /><small>View <a href="https://maps.google.com/maps/ms?msa=0&amp;msid=210651358324936961719.0004ffd97eb710ea909a4&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;t=m&amp;ll=35.563023,139.718542&amp;spn=0.013964,0.018282&amp;z=15&amp;source=embed" style="color: blue; text-align: left;">Phono Kafe</a> in a larger map</small> <br /><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#key">back to summary table</a></div><br /><h2 style="text-align: left;">Food Categories&nbsp;</h2>These categories are intended to be useful rather than 'accurate' and in reality the lines are blurred, especially between macrobiotic and western/fusion.<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Authentic Japanese</h3>There are very few truly Japanese vegetarian restaurants, as the Japanese diet is mostly based around fish. However, this rather empty category includes food which the visitor will probably consider Japanese, from high-end sushi to ramen.<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Macrobiotic</h3>The <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macrobiotic_diet" target="_blank">macrobiotic diet</a> is a simple, balanced diet with emphasis on healthy grains (and a lot of deep-fried food). I'm not a big fan of it because I find the dishes sometimes quite bland, and while I know little about it, I trust it's very healthy. It goes back to Hippocrates, but has been practised in Japan for centuries, and remains very popular, especially among health-conscious people. Many macrobiotic places are vegan, but some serve fish products. Most of their desserts are vegan, but it's always best to check. The macrobiotic is very Japanese, but I give it its own category because there are so many, all serving similar food which is so different to other Japanese good. <br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Western / Fusion</h3>This category includes common restaurants serving food popular with Japanese vegans (or omnivores). It generally includes some Japanese and some&nbsp; western-style dishes (especially salads), but is presented beautifully, Japanese-style, and is not unlike much modern Japanese food eaten all over Japan, especially by younger generations. This section does not include macrobiotic (below), though they often overlap.<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Organic &amp; Raw</h3>Don't underestimate raw food, for flavour or health benefits.<br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"></h3><h3 style="text-align: left;">Indian </h3><div style="text-align: left;">See: <a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/11/indian-restaurants-in-tokyo.html">Indian Restaurants in Tokyo</a></div><br />The best cuisine in the world in my humble opinion, equal with Thai food. Most Indian restaurants in Japan serve North Indian food, and most will have a chef who speaks some English and may be able to make do a vegan dish, though the more I talk to vegetarian Japanese and Indians, and the more they warn me that many places use animal-based stocks in their vegetable curries, the less I trust random (non-vegetarian) Indian restaurants. But these vegetarian branches have been around for a long time, and with the exception of Govinda's Edogawa-ku, most have a good understanding of what is vegan, with items containing dairy products clearly marked on the menu.<br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">Other Ethnic&nbsp;</h3>These currently include Taiwanese, Middle Eastern and Italian. <br /><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;">A Big Cheap Meal</h3>This is for when you're tired of small portions and high prices, and just want some calories to send you on your way. Buffets are the way to go.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#key">back to summary table</a></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://japanvegan.blogspot.jp/2013/07/vegan-restaurants-in-tokyo.html#top"><b>Top of Page</b></a><br /><br /><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="5px" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left; width: 100%;"><tbody><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"><td>$$ </td> <td>cuisine </td> <td>hours</td> <td>website </td> <td>Happycow </td> </tr><tr align="center" bgcolor="lightGray"> <td colspan="3">〒</td> <td colspan="2"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Current+Location/" target="_blank">directions</a></td> </tr></tbody></table><br /></div></div></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3986230843543302380.post-11248688014556523732013-07-19T06:40:00.001-07:002013-07-19T07:52:32.276-07:00Welcome to Japan Vegan<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />This blog is to be a short "sister-blog" to my main blog about <a href="http://www.vegantaiwan.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">vegan life in Taiwan</a>. I have lived in Yokohama for two years, and will probably be here for one more year. The purpose of this blog is to provide some basic starting information for vegans travelling to or living in Japan.<br /><br /><br />The purpose of this blog is to provide useful information to vegan travelers or residents, and as such, I will aim to make the information as practical as possible. However, due to the size of Japan - and even Tokyo - this blog will never be complete, especially considering how quickly restaurants come - and unfortunately go - in Japan. However, since my <a href="http://vegantaiwan.blogspot.in/2012/11/japan-skiing-surfing-and-switchback.html" target="_blank">'Japan' posts</a> on my Taiwan blog are becoming longer and longer, and since there is little (up-to-date) information out there on vegan options in Japan, it seems worth putting together this short blog while I am here. If you find something out of date, please let me know.<br /><br />While I will provide photos and reviews of restaurants I visit (if I think they're good), I still think the best way to find out up-to-date information is the <a href="http://www.happycow.net/asia/japan/tokyo/" target="_blank">Happycow website</a>, and the <a href="http://www.happycow.net/android.php" target="_blank">Android App</a> for finding nearby restaurants is a real life-saver. <a href="http://vegouttokyo.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Vegout Tokyo</a> also has some good information, however it's very much 'vegetarian' so I think there's a need for a specifically vegan blog on life in and around Tokyo.<br /><br />The first (and possibly only) posts on this blog will be plucked straight from my Taiwan blog, as they are somewhat misplaced there, and not very usable as they are.<br /><br /><br /><br />While Tokyo has some of the best vegan restaurants in East Asia (and perhaps the best variety after Bangkok) just getting by as a vegan is much harder in Japan than it is in Taiwan, since there are far fewer veg'n restaurants (none in my city of four million people), because fish products are the defining feature of Japanese cuisine, and because there is much less understanding - and acceptance - of vegetarianism here than in Taiwan.&nbsp;It's not uncommon for people to burst out laughing (in disbelief) when I explain that I'm vegan, as opposed to the almost universal respect from Taiwanese. From my experience, even non-veg foreigners are much more understanding of vegetarianism in Taiwan than in Japan.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hy3yqKR8qXU/UJ5Hpeiu09I/AAAAAAAAAz0/QVFCqSAoTng/s1600/DSCF7395.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hy3yqKR8qXU/UJ5Hpeiu09I/AAAAAAAAAz0/QVFCqSAoTng/s400/DSCF7395.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;">I never cease to be amazed at how calm and peaceful even busy and densely-populated areas of downtown Tokyo can be, especially during the evening. This is especially true of the city's parks.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div>Jessehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05829181876089847615noreply@blogger.com2